Could foreign powers be pulling strings in Canada’s upcoming election? A shocking new government report warns that China, Russia, and India are actively preparing to meddle in Canada’s democratic process, using tactics even more sophisticated than those employed in previous elections.
At a glance:
• China, Russia, India, and potentially Pakistan are expected to interfere in Canada’s federal election
• Foreign actors will likely use AI, social media manipulation, and targeted disinformation campaigns
• Chinese operatives may specifically target Chinese-Canadian communities
• Russian interference will likely focus on manipulating information on social media and news websites
• The Canadian government has activated the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol to monitor and respond to threats
Foreign Powers Target Canadian Democracy
Canada’s Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) task force has identified China, Russia, and India as the top foreign interference threats to the upcoming federal election. The three nations are expected to use covert and unlawful tactics to influence Canadian voters, with methods that have evolved significantly since the 2021 election.
The warning came as Canada entered its official election period on March 23, thereby activating government protocols designed to safeguard integrity. Officials are particularly worried about the use of artificial intelligence to create convincing deepfakes, as well as targeted disinformation campaigns.
According to the SITE task force, each foreign actor has developed specific strategies to undermine Canadian democracy. China may specifically target Chinese-Canadian communities using sophisticated AI techniques, while India might leverage its extensive networks within Canada to assert influence.
Threat Actors Evolving Their Tactics
Security experts warn that foreign interference has become increasingly difficult to detect as hostile nations refine their methods. Vanessa Lloyd, a government security official, noted, “Most threat actors remain likely to conduct threat activities and have likely adapted their tradecraft to further conceal their foreign interference activity, making it even more challenging to detect.”
Russia’s playbook appears to focus on manipulating information through social media platforms and news websites to sway public opinion. Pakistan has also been identified as a potential threat, possibly attempting to counter India’s growing global influence.
While a recent Foreign Interference inquiry found evidence of meddling in the 2021 election, Head Investigator Marie-Josée Hogue concluded it did not ultimately change the election result. However, the government is taking no chances with the upcoming vote, and will implement enhanced monitoring and communication systems.
Canada’s Defense Against Election Threats
The Canadian government has activated the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol, an impartial process for communicating with citizens about potential interference. The protocol is part of Canada’s broader Plan to Protect Democracy, which coordinates efforts across multiple federal departments and national security agencies.
Social media platforms have been called upon to help combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation during the election period. Major platforms including X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok have acknowledged concerns about synthetic content and promised to take action, though election officials remain cautious.
The government has also developed Protecting Democracy Toolkits to help citizens identify and build resilience against foreign interference. Officials stress that safeguarding Canada’s elections requires a collaborative effort from government, private sector, and citizens.
