Qualinet announces that it has been the victim of a cyberattack
• An analysis is underway and Qualinet is supported by cybersecurity experts.
• All data has been restored.
• A police investigation by the SPVQ is underway.
• The Quebec Access to Information Commission was duly informed of the incident.
• Qualinet's president urges the business world to take cybersecurity very seriously, as the advent of artificial intelligence could be a game-changer.
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Quebec, Monday, March 3, 2025 - Band Qualinet detected an attempt at unauthorized access to its computer systems. Having learned of this incident, Qualinet management deployed its emergency plan and mobilized a team of specialists to identify the extent of the attack and to strengthen protections.
"We were the victims of a data theft, despite state-of-the-art precautions that ensure the security of our systems and we are sorry. After an initial analysis of the incident, we were able to quickly restore our systems and we found that some data had been stolen. It is in the interest of transparency that we are making the information public. Customers who must be notified will be notified under Bill 25 and we will continue to take all precautionary measures. We have always protected our customers' confidential data and this is a matter to which we attach great importance," said Roger Vigneault, director of operations at Qualinet.
It is important to note that cyberattacks are now commonplace and affect not only businesses, but government institutions and organizations of all sizes. In the summer of 2024, CIRA conducted a survey in Canada and revealed that 44% of businesses or organizations had experienced a cybersecurity incident.
"Even entities with highly sophisticated security measures can be targeted. This in no way diminishes Qualinet's commitment to protecting personal information and we have taken additional measures to further strengthen our security mechanisms," adds Mr. Vigneault.
“Companies that are victims of cyberattacks often see this as a taboo subject and prefer not to talk about it publicly. I have chosen to come out into the open and I am appealing to the business world to make all leaders aware of this issue, which is becoming a widespread problem. Nowadays, even AI can be used by criminals to automatically search for targets, identify system vulnerabilities or encrypt data. The more our local businesses protect themselves, the less criminals will target Quebec,” says the president of Qualinet, Eric Pichette.
About Qualinet
Founded 30 years ago in the Quebec region by Mr. Éric Pichette and 100% Quebec-owned, Qualinet is today the undisputed leader in post-disaster intervention following water damage, flooding, fire, smoke, drama or vandalism. It is also the best-known brand for disinfection work, general cleaning and ventilation ducts.
