Canada’s security landscape is facing increased threats from multiple foreign actors engaged in espionage, interference, and transnational repression, according to a recent assessment by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).

Growing Threats from Multiple Nations

The report identifies India, China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan as key actors undertaking covert operations and aggressive attempts to influence Canadian politics and society. These activities include deceptive recruitment tactics and efforts to suppress dissent.

India’s Covert Activities and Diplomatic Strain

Historically, India has cultivated covert relationships with Canadian politicians, journalists, and members of the Indo-Canadian community. Tactics employed include surveillance and coercive measures aimed at suppressing dissent and instilling fear.

The 2023 slaying of Khalistan separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, attributed to Indian agents by Ottawa, resulted in the expulsion of six Indian diplomats and strained diplomatic relations. Despite recent efforts to restore ties, concerns regarding foreign interference persist.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand clarified that no country is exempt from scrutiny regarding interference in Canadian affairs, even after previous assertions about India’s non-involvement.

China’s Evolving Intelligence Gathering

China’s intelligence gathering has shifted from traditional recruitment to utilizing front companies and deceptive job advertisements. CSIS refers to these Chinese intelligence services as PRCIS.

These services post fake job listings on mainstream employment websites to attract Canadians with access to sensitive information. Even applicants without direct access to classified data are valuable, as their resumes and personal details can be used for targeting.

CSIS highlighted this tactic in security alerts as early as 2025, focusing on its targeting of Canadian academic research. This follows a period of strained relations stemming from the 2018 arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou.

Threats from Russia, Iran, and Pakistan

Russia is actively engaged in espionage, sabotage, and disinformation campaigns, utilizing proxy networks and artificial intelligence to undermine support for Ukraine. CSIS has intercepted Canadian technology destined for Russia.

Iran is characterized as an aggressive perpetrator of transnational repression, including alleged attempts to assassinate former Liberal justice minister Irwin Cotler. An alleged Iranian state group hacked into Iran International, publishing the personal information of a Canadian resident.

Pakistan is also identified as a country engaging in foreign meddling and spying within Canada. These multifaceted threats require a comprehensive response from Canadian security agencies and international collaboration.