The Communications Security Establishment (CSE) has published its 2025 update on cyber threats to Canada’s democratic system, revealing that foreign actors are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to disrupt elections around the world—including in Canada.
The report, titled Cyber Threats to Canada’s Democratic Process: 2025 Update, outlines how the growing accessibility and power of AI tools have enabled state-sponsored and criminal groups to launch more sophisticated cyber operations. These include spreading disinformation, harassing public figures, and conducting cyber espionage.
Key Highlights from the Report:
- Foreign adversaries—especially linked to Russia, China, and Iran—are using AI to fuel division and mistrust in democratic societies.
- Generative AI is being exploited to mass-produce false information and distribute it through bot networks.
- AI is now being used to create deepfake pornography, targeting public figures—particularly women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
- AI-powered social engineering and phishing tactics are becoming more common, posing risks to political figures and electoral institutions.
- CSE anticipates attempts by foreign states to interfere in the 2025 federal election through disinformation and cyberattacks, though the report stresses it is very unlikely these efforts will fundamentally undermine the election’s integrity.
Despite these concerns, the CSE and its Cyber Centre are actively working with federal partners to defend Canada’s electoral systems. Public awareness efforts, including the Get Cyber Safe campaign, aim to help Canadians navigate the digital landscape safely.
Statements from Leaders:
Caroline Xavier, Chief of CSE, emphasized collective responsibility:
“AI-enabled threats pose serious challenges, but our democracy is resilient. Every Canadian—from government officials to voters—has a role in safeguarding it.”
Rajiv Gupta, Head of the Cyber Centre, added:
“The rise of AI has changed the cyber threat landscape. We’re committed to providing guidance and working with partners to protect our democratic institutions.”
Fast Facts:
- Between 2023–2024, AI was used to target roughly 27% of global elections.
- There were 60 known AI-generated disinformation campaigns and 34 cases of bot-driven influence operations during this period.
- The report includes an overview of AI, machine learning, generative AI, and large language models (LLMs).
- CSE is legally authorized to carry out cyber defense and disruption operations to protect Canada’s federal elections.
The CSE remains a key member of the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force, alongside CSIS, Global Affairs Canada, and the RCMP. It continues to provide briefings and cybersecurity support to political parties, Elections Canada, and other democratic institutions across the country.
