
The Timmins Police Service has temporarily suspended its use of the Crime Stoppers program following reports of a cybersecurity incident involving a third-party platform used by Crime Stoppers organizations.
In response to the incident and the potential for a data breach, the Timmins Police Service has advised the Cochrane District Crime Stoppers program that it will suspend the receipt of tips through the service while further information is gathered regarding the scope and potential impact of the incident.
To date, no information affecting Timmins has been identified as part of the reported data breach. The Timmins Police Service will continue to monitor developments and assess any potential implications for police operations.
The Timmins Police Service recognizes the significant value of information provided by tipsters. Tips received through Crime Stoppers can play an important role in helping police initiate investigations, advance existing investigations and address community safety concerns.
Members of the public who wish to provide information to police are encouraged to contact the Timmins Police Service non-emergency line. This has always been an option for individuals wishing to share information directly with police. However, unlike Crime Stoppers, police cannot guarantee anonymity in most circumstances when information is provided directly.
While information received through Crime Stoppers is generally not time-sensitive, the Timmins Police Service remains receptive to information relating to significant public safety concerns. Should urgent information arise, police will proceed with caution, conduct an appropriate risk assessment and determine the necessary operational response.
“Public safety remains our top priority. We recognize the important role Crime Stoppers plays in supporting police investigations and appreciate the information provided by tipsters. We will continue to assess the potential impacts of this cybersecurity incident and will resume receiving tips through the program once we are satisfied that its security and integrity have been adequately established to support public trust and protect tipster confidentiality.”, said Chief Syd Lecky of Timmins Police Service.
As Crime Stoppers operates independently of the Timmins Police Service, inquiries regarding the cybersecurity incident, its scope and the response by the Crime Stoppers organization should be directed to the Canadian Crime Stoppers Association (CCSA) at dforster@1800222tips.com.
The Timmins Police Service will provide further information as appropriate and when additional details become available.