Ottawa Police Service temporarily suspends use of Crime Stoppers platform
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, October 23, 2026 6:00 p.m.
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is aware of the reported data breach involving the third-party reporting platform used by Crime Stoppers programs across Canada and recognizes the seriousness of this incident, particularly given the importance of protecting the anonymity and safety of those who come forward with information.
Out of an abundance of caution, OPS has temporarily suspended its use of the Crime Stoppers platform while the situation is reviewed.
While OPS and Crime Stoppers have worked closely in support of community safety, Crime Stoppers operates independently from the police service. The Crime Stoppers reporting platform is not connected to OPS internal systems.
At this time, OPS is working to better understand the scope and impact of the incident and is reviewing available information.
During this period, members of the public are encouraged to contact OPS directly to report crimes, suspicious activity or information related to ongoing investigations. While we take the protection of personal information seriously and handle it in accordance with our privacy and information security obligations, it doesn't necessarily offer the same anonymity as Crime Stoppers.
Members of the public looking to provide a tip, can do so by leaving a message after dialing 613-236-1222 and entering extension number 3000. The caller will hear two rings followed by an answer from the voicemailbox.
In an emergency, call 9-1-1. Non-emergency incidents can be reported by calling 613-236-1222 or through OPS online reporting options, where applicable, at ottawapolice.ca/report.
OPS will continue to monitor developments and assess any potential impacts on police operations. Questions regarding the breach, the scope of any affected information and measures taken in response should be directed to the Canadian Crime Stoppers Association.
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Through the Community Safety Data portal data.ottawapolice.ca, members of the public can view, download, and interact with data released by the Ottawa Police Service.
Help make your community safer: register your information and security camera location at CAMSafe.ca to support investigations.
CONTACT:
Media Relations
Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366
