Cybersecurity centre warns of ‘sophisticated’ threat targeting Cisco equipment

A woman uses a keyboard in North Vancouver, B.C., Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

OTTAWA — The federal cybersecurity centre is urging Canadian organizations to “take immediate action” against malware targeting computer systems through Cisco Systems devices.

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security says it is aware of threat activity involving “highly sophisticated” malware against Cisco ASA 5500-X Series devices.

The centre says these devices are commonly used by organizations across Canada.

It stresses that timing is crucial when such vulnerabilities are identified, and organizations should apply appropriate patches immediately.

The centre says the threat activity in question involves advanced techniques to avoid detection, making the dangers difficult to identify through conventional means.

It says organizations that might be affected should call 1-833-CYBER-88 or message officials at [e-mail] as soon as possible.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 25, 2025.

Jim Bronskill, The Canadian Press