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C-8At second reading in the Senate

New Law Boosts Computer Security and Changes Phone Rules

Computer Security Law Changes Phone Rules

Introduced Jun 18, 2025·Last discussed 13 days ago
Summary

This proposed law focuses on protecting Canada's phone and internet networks from cyber attacks. It would give the government the power to create and enforce new security rules for telecommunications companies (like Bell, Rogers, Telus, etc.). The government could order these companies to stop using certain equipment or services from specific providers if they are seen as a security risk. This proposed law affects all telecommunications companies in Canada. It also affects anyone who uses phone or internet services, as it aims to make those services more secure. The government believes these changes are needed to protect Canadians from cyber threats that could disrupt our communications systems. This matters because it could change how phone and internet companies operate. They might have to replace equipment or change their security practices, which could cost them money. It also matters because it gives the government more power to control our telecommunications infrastructure in the name of national security. The government must report to parliament yearly the number and nature of orders made, the number of companies affected, and the necessity, reasonableness, and utility of the orders.

What MPs Are Saying
Liberal
Gary AnandasangareeLiberalSupports

I think it is important that we pass this bill. Canada is facing many cyber attacks. We need to be ready to deal with these attacks to protect people, important systems, and our money.

Conservative
Frank CaputoConservativeNeutral

I want to thank the Minister and the officials. I will ask questions about Bill C-8 and Bill C-12 today.

Green Party
Elizabeth MayGreen PartyWants Changes

I see some good changes in this bill from past talks. But I still worry about how it could let the government spy on Canadians and share their private data too easily. I want the minister to fix these problems.

Where This Lands on Key Issues

Where this proposed law falls on the policy spectrums that Canadians care about

National Security & DefenceIncrease defence investment

The bill focuses on enhancing the cybersecurity of telecommunications infrastructure, which directly relates to national security. By imposing security rules on phone and internet companies, the government is taking a proactive step to protect against cyber threats, aligning with a stronger national security posture.

Crime & Public SafetyStronger law enforcement

By imposing security rules on phone and internet companies, the government is taking a proactive step to protect against cyber threats, aligning with a crime prevention approach.

This bill
Bill Quality
Mixed

This proposed law aims to protect Canada's telecommunications networks from cyber threats by giving the government power to block certain products or services. However, it also gives a lot of power to the government with limited oversight and potential impacts on businesses.

Things to Watch For

  • The definition of 'threat' is broad, which could lead to overreach.
  • Orders can be kept secret, making it hard to know if the powers are used fairly.
  • Telecommunication companies won't get paid back for the costs of following these orders.
  • It's not clear how the government will balance security with people's right to privacy.
  • The law does not specify who decides what products or services are a security risk.
  • The Minister can demand information from any person, but it's not clear how this power will be limited.
  • The law lets the government share confidential information with other agencies, but it's not clear how this information will be protected afterwards.
Progress

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