Urgent Cybersecurity Alert Regarding Apache Log4j
Urgent Cybersecurity Alert Regarding Apache Log4j
Canada’s Minister of National Defence has issued a statement regarding a recently identified critical vulnerability in the Apache Log4j logging product. The threat has potential for exploitation by bad actors for use in cybersecurity attacks, including against sensitive information assets. Open-source reporting indicates that the critical vulnerability is actively being scanned for and exploited.
It is being reported that various Canadian public agencies are temporarily taking down online services as a preventative measure, including the CRA, Metrolinx and thousands of government websites in Quebec.
The Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity has released technical guidance about the issue and has called on all Canadian organizations to immediately follow recommended steps to protect themselves from the vulnerability. The suggested steps include:
- internally reviewing all potentially impacted applications;
- if possible, upgrading to Apache Log4j version 2.15, which addresses the vulnerability
- if upgrading is not immediately possible, applying workarounds suggested by Apache; and
- reviewing logs for signs of compromise.
Canada’s Minister of National Defence also directs organizations that depend on third-party service providers to engage them immediately to inquire about the actions they are taking.
If your organization uses Apache Log4j, please ensure that you are taking necessary steps to address the vulnerability noted above, including following the steps recommended by the Minister of National Defence and the Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity.
If you believe that your information systems have been exploited, we recommend that you contact your legal counsel immediately. Our team of privacy and cybersecurity lawyers at McMillan LLP are ready to assist to the extent you require any support.
by Mitch Koczerginski and Lyndsay Wasser
A Cautionary Note
The foregoing provides only an overview and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are cautioned against making any decisions based on this material alone. Rather, specific legal advice should be obtained.
© McMillan LLP 2021
Insights (5 Posts)View More
More Than Meets the Eye: The Legal Implications of British Columbia’s Agreement to Recognize Aboriginal Title Over Haida Gwaii
An analysis of legal implications related to the BC Government's agreement with the Haida Nation to recognize Aboriginal title over Haida Gwaii.
Lessons Learned from the TTC’s Ransomware Attack
Lessons learned from the recent investigation by the Ontario IPC into the effectiveness of the TTC's cybersecurity measures and ransomware attack response
Don’t Get Caught by Canada’s Patent Novelty Grace-Period
The key difference between Canada and other jurisdictions like the United States when relying on the grace-period for inventor disclosures.
Shifting Gears – Canada to Consider New Motor Vehicle Equipment Regulations to Help Prevent Auto Theft
Transport Canada announces plan to update safety standards to combat auto theft.
Budget 2024: Legislative Changes of Note for Investment Funds
In Budget 2024, the Government acknowledges that the restrictions placed on the property that may be held by registered plans have become unduly complex.
Get updates delivered right to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.