The Toronto Police Service is aware of new information regarding the cybersecurity breach involving a third-party service provider used by Crime Stoppers. While Toronto Crime Stoppers and Toronto Police work closely in support of community safety, they are separate organizations, and the platform involved is operated independently of the Toronto Police Service.

The information that has become available raises serious concerns regarding the protection of confidential information provided through the Crime Stoppers program. The safety of members of the public, tipsters, and police personnel is paramount.

As a result, the Toronto Police Service has temporarily suspended its use of Crime Stoppers while we review the information that has become available and assess the additional safeguards and security measures being implemented by Toronto Crime Stoppers and its service providers.

Until that review is complete, members of the public who wish to provide information about crime or public safety concerns are encouraged to contact Toronto Police directly through our existing reporting channels. While this does not provide the anonymity associated with the Crime Stoppers program, it will ensure information is received directly by investigators.

We understand that Toronto Crime Stoppers has taken, and continues to take, steps to strengthen its security measures, implement additional safeguards, and address concerns arising from this incident. We recognize the important role Crime Stoppers has played in supporting community safety and investigations over many years and appreciate the seriousness with which it is approaching this matter.

Questions regarding the breach, the scope of any affected information, and measures taken in response should be directed to Toronto Crime Stoppers.

The Toronto Crime Stoppers statement can be found here.