The Canadian Cyber Threat Exchange (CCTX) is operational and reaching out to Canadian businesses

OTTAWA, Dec. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - One year after its founders unveiled plans for an independent, not-for-profit organization that would help Canadian companies guard against cyber attacks, the new Canadian Cyber Threat Exchange (CCTX) is up and running. At its inaugural annual symposium on December 7^th, the CCTX briefed businesses, government, and academics on its activities and announced the release of its first Cyber Trends and Analysis Summary for CCTX members.

The symposium drew a range of Canadian and U.S. cyber-security experts who provided the latest information on current threats and trends, risks associated with the Internet of Things, the evolving legal landscape, and operational advice on defending networks. Attendees also had an opportunity to provide recommendations to Defence Research and Development Canada on how it should direct its research to address technology gaps facing the private sector.

CCTX Executive Director Bob Gordon also announced the selection of EWA-Canada as its Managed Security Service Provider, responsible for infrastructure and analytical capability. "EWA-Canada is a leading provider of security solutions to governments and the private sector and is our trusted partner to help propel CCTX to the next level," said Gordon. "EWA-Canada will enable the CCTX to achieve full operational capability quickly while taking advantage of best-in-class private sector capabilities."

EWA-Canada President Dennis Weiss took part in the symposium, briefing participants on the progress achieved to date, including hiring the team of cyber threat analysts, setting up the technical tools and infrastructure, and launching CCTX's first monthly cyber threat report.  

Over the past few months, Working Groups composed of technical experts from member companies have been active in defining and developing the range of products and services that the CCTX will provide.

"The next wave of CCTX products and services will be made available in early February," added Gordon. "This will include an online portal for near real time exchange of threat information as well as the setup of a collaborative space where participants can come in to learn, share and take action with other CCTX participants."

Marc Duchesne, CCTX Board Chair and Chief Security Officer for Bell Canada, told symposium attendees that the CCTX is living up to the expectations of participating companies. "With more than 30 organizations from various industry sectors across Canada in varying stages of becoming part of CCTX, we have exceeded our membership target," he said. "That is a clear testament to the need for an effective cyber threat exchange capability in Canada and how effective the CCTX has been in moving the issue of cyber security forward."

Mr. Gordon noted that the rising incidence of cyber attacks affects small and medium firms as well as large companies.  For smaller firms in particular, the cost of sophisticated cyber defenses can be a significant challenge.  Recognizing this, the CCTX announced the development of a targeted package for participation by small businesses who will be able to join for as low as $2,000 a year.  The CCTX also recognizes the critical role of Canadian academic institutions as part of Canada's critical digital infrastructure, in developing the next generation of cyber security experts and in conducting world-class research on cyber security challenges.  For that reason, and to assist such institutions in better defending their networks, the CCTX announced that it is also creating a special category for academic organizations.  The CCTX will work with groups such as CUCCIO (Canadian University Council of Chief Information Officers) to further develop this initiative.   

If you are interested in joining this group of leading organizations that are shaping the future of cyber security in Canada, please go to www.cctx.ca and fill in your application form.  For any inquiries, please contact us at [email protected].

SOURCE Canadian Cyber Threat Exchange.

1600 James Naismith Drive, 1st floor, Ottawa, Ontario K1B 5N8 • 1600, ch. James Naismith, 1e étage, Ottawa (Ontario) K1B 5N8; [phone] • www.cctx.ca