Smiths Falls Police Service Statement Regarding Reported Crime Stoppers Cybersecurity Incident

The Smiths Falls Police Service is aware of the reported cybersecurity incident involving the third-party,  Navigate360 P3 , tip management platform used by Crime Stoppers organizations across Canada. We acknowledge the seriousness of this matter and the importance of safeguarding the anonymity and safety of individuals who provide information in support of public safety and criminal investigations.

While Smiths Falls Police Service and Crime Stoppers share a common goal of enhancing community safety, Crime Stoppers operates independently from police services. Information submitted through Crime Stoppers may be shared with police for investigative purposes; however, the reported incident involves a third-party Crime Stoppers platform and does not involve any Smiths Falls Police Service systems, networks, or databases. The Navigate360 platform is not connected to or integrated with our Police information technology infrastructure.

The Smiths Falls Police Service understands that reports regarding this incident may raise concerns within the community. We recognize that public confidence relies on the protection of confidential information and remain committed to supporting the safety and privacy of those who choose to provide information through Crime Stoppers programs.

To help ensure public confidence and information security, the Smiths Falls Police Service has temporarily suspended the use of Crime Stoppers as a reporting option while additional details surrounding this incident are clarified. We remain engaged in monitoring the situation and will continue to evaluate any potential impacts on service delivery and police operations.

The well-being and protection of those who have engaged with Crime Stoppers is of paramount importance to the Smiths Falls Police Service. We remain committed to safeguarding public safety while preserving trust in the systems used to report crime and public safety concerns.

Members of the public who wish to report a crime or public safety concern are encouraged to contact the Police directly through established reporting channels. Information can be provided by calling the general line at 613-283-0357, ext. 0.

Smiths Falls Police Service will continue to assess information related to this incident as it becomes available and will take any appropriate actions required. Members of the public seeking information about the cybersecurity incident, including its scope and potential impacts, are encouraged to contact the appropriate Crime Stoppers organization directly.