Canada signs U.N. cybercrime convention, joins global effort to combat online crime

The convention, adopted by the U.N. General Assembly in December 2024 and opened for signature in October 2025, seeks to improve cross-border cooperation among law enforcement agencies in tackling cybercrime and transnational criminal activity.

Canada's government said the treaty would strengthen collaboration with international partners to investigate cyber-enabled crimes while upholding human rights, privacy and the rule of law.

"As cyber threats continue to evolve and become increasingly sophisticated, international cooperation is essential to protecting Canadians and ensuring cybercriminals are held accountable," Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said in a statement.

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said the agreement reflects Canada's commitment to working with international partners to combat cybercrime while reinforcing trust in digital technologies.

Justice Minister Sean Fraser said the convention would help law enforcement agencies investigate cross-border cybercrimes more quickly and improve efforts to hold offenders accountable.

The convention has been signed by 79 countries and entities, including Canada, but will enter into force only after it is ratified by 40 states. According to the Canadian government, three countries have ratified the treaty so far.

Canada said it played an active role in negotiating the convention, advocating for provisions that respect human rights, democracy and the rule of law.