David Vigneault says state-sponsored spying and cyber threats pose a greater challenge than terrorism, cites risk of election meddling.
The head of Canada’s spy agency said state-sponsored economic espionage and cyber threats now pose a potentially greater challenge to the country than terrorism, warning that foreign actors are already targeting the domestic technology and telecommunications sectors.
David Vigneault, director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, or CSIS, said foreign interference and espionage are “the greatest threat” to the country’s prosperity and national interest. He also warned of the possibility of foreign interference in the country’s national election next fall.
“Plainly said: there is state-sponsored espionage in Canada,” said Mr. Vigneault Tuesday, according to published remarks at a luncheon hosted by the Economic Club of Canada. “No matter how it’s done or who’s behind it, economic espionage represents a long-term threat to Canada’s economy and to our prosperity.”
.. sectors where CSIS has observed increased activity by state-sponsored actors include artificial intelligence, quantum technology, 5G mobile networks and biopharmaceuticals.