Gaps in digital systems put B.C. government computer networks at risk: auditor

VICTORIA – B.C.’s auditor general is warning that a series of digital gaps in the province’s extensive network of computer systems is putting the government at risk.

Auditor John Doyle released a report Tuesday that found 30 per cent of issues identified by government managers relate to information technology.

It found that sensitive information wasn’t always adequately protected, strong passwords weren’t always used and there were other holes that could open up agencies to fraud.

Other problems included failure to regularly back up data and the likelihood some organizations might not be able to identify and resolve threats on a timely basis.

Doyle says the public expects information and services to be delivered electronically, which makes IT security a “serious responsibility” for the public sector.

The report was compiled through a review of 154 letters from managers and found “weaknesses” across all areas of government computing systems.