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Nova Scotia Power confirmed in late April that it had been the target of a cyberattack involving the theft and ransom of customer data. Some of that personal information has since been posted online, and more than 280,000 customers have received letters warning that their privacy may have been compromised.
Minister Jill Balser says tools are available now, but bigger questions remain
Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Solutions Jill Balser says those affected by the breach should take advantage of free credit monitoring and fraud alerts being made available. She also said tools like two-factor authentication, password changes, and credit rating checks can go a long way in limiting harm.
“Nobody is immune to cyberattacks,” Balser said. “For those impacted by the recent breach, it’s important to take advantage of the tools being offered.”
Balser noted the province is looking into a credit-freeze option — a tool that locks an individual’s credit file from being accessed — but said it would require significant time and legislative change to implement.
“Quebec is the only jurisdiction in Canada that offers it,” she said. “I’m encouraged by the opportunity to discuss it further with my national colleagues this fall.”
She also emphasized that while the Department is offering resources and information, Nova Scotians should continue to watch their financial statements and digital accounts for suspicious activity.
RCMP say threats often originate overseas and urge public to report
Cpl. Mitch Thompson with the Nova Scotia RCMP Commercial Crime Section says cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated and often involve international players.
“Many attacks are carried out using global infrastructure and networks,” Thompson said. “They can originate in one country, pass through another, and target someone in a third.”
He says it’s important people act quickly by changing passwords, setting up two-factor authentication, and monitoring accounts.
Thompson adds that scam calls and phishing attempts can spike after a breach, and urges the public to report any suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and local police.
“Fraud is one of the most common crimes in Canada,” he said. “But it’s also one of the most under-reported.”
Liberals call for emergency committee meeting
Nova Scotia Liberals are pushing for an emergency Public Accounts Committee meeting, saying the breach at Nova Scotia Power raises serious questions about how public funds are being used and whether cybersecurity standards are being met.
In a letter, interim Liberal leader Derek Mombourquette said Nova Scotians deserve answers and accountability, especially from a company that has received public subsidies while also raising power rates.
“This is one of the most significant privacy breaches in Nova Scotia’s history,” he wrote. “We must act quickly to protect the public interest.”
As of now, Nova Scotia Power has not commented on whether more customer information has been compromised or if additional supports will be offered. Investigations are ongoing.
