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Canada’s Privacy Commissioner Opens Investigation Into WestJet Cyberattack

Investigators will evaluate the airline’s security safeguards at the time of the breach to assess its compliance with privacy law.

WestJet passengers deplane on the tarmac at Yellowknife Airport on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
WestJet plane during takeoff.
WestJet passenger jets parked at departure gates at the Calgary International Airport on Wednesday, May 31, 2023.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Overview

  • On August 5, Privacy Commissioner Philippe Dufresne’s office launched a formal investigation into WestJet’s handling of the June cybersecurity incident.
  • Investigators will review both the strength of the airline’s digital defenses at the time of the breach and the promptness and clarity of its notifications to customers.
  • WestJet confirmed that a sophisticated criminal actor accessed personal and travel-related information but did not obtain credit card details or guest passwords.
  • The airline restored affected systems within 24 hours and emphasized that its flight operations remained completely safe and uninterrupted.
  • WestJet is collaborating with law enforcement, Transport Canada and federal cybersecurity agencies while contacting those whose data may have been exposed.