How ProtectIQ Keeps Your Home Network Safe from Email Hacks
In today’s digital world, our email accounts connect us to almost everything — our banking, our online shopping, our government services, our social media, and even our work. With so much tied to a single inbox, email hacks have become one of the fastest-growing cyber threats affecting Canadians.
And the numbers show just how serious it is:
- Cybercrime in Canada has surged by 40% in the last two years, with phishing and email compromise leading the way.
- Fraud losses exceeded $554 million in 2023, according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Nearly 1 in 4 Canadians say they’ve been the victim of a cyber-attack.
- 62% of Canadians reuse passwords, making it easier for hackers to access multiple accounts.
With attacks rising every year, tools like ProtectIQ are more important than ever. By providing built-in network protection, ProtectIQ helps keep your home and family safe from online threats before they ever reach your devices.
Why Email Hacks Matter More Than You Think
Email isn’t “just email” anymore — it’s the gateway to your digital identity.
If a hacker gets into your inbox, they may be able to access:
- CRA My Account (taxes, benefits, personal details)
- Online banking (TD, RBC, ATB, Scotiabank, CIBC, and more)
- Shopping accounts
- Streaming services
- Password reset links
- Social media profiles
- Work or school logins
One compromised password can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and months of recovery.
Cyber incidents in Canada show how quickly personal data can be exposed. In early 2024, WestJet confirmed that employee and some customer information had been accessed through a third-party system compromise. While the breach didn’t originate from customer email accounts, it revealed how a single weak access point can expose sensitive personal details, including names and contact information.
Incidents like this highlight how interconnected our digital lives truly are — and how a single compromised login or system can have widespread impact. It’s a strong reminder that security at both the account level and the home network level is essential.
With over 70% of Canadian households using Wi-Fi for banking, work, and essential services, home networks are an attractive target for cybercriminals.
Common Signs Your Email Has Been Hacked
Not sure if something’s wrong? Watch for:
- Login problems – your password suddenly doesn’t work.
- Strange emails – messages sent from your account that you don’t remember sending.
- Unexpected account activity – unusual logins or changes to banking, social media, or shopping accounts.
- Password reset emails – reset links or security alerts you didn’t request.
If you notice any of these, act quickly.
What To Do If Your Email Is Hacked
- Change your password
Use 12+ characters, mix symbols/numbers, and avoid reuse. - Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
Available on email, banking, CRA, social media, and more. - Check your account settings
Look for forwarding rules, strange recovery emails, or unknown devices. - Warn your contacts
Prevent others from clicking harmful links sent from your account. - Update your devices
Install all available updates on phones, tablets, and computers.
How ProtectIQ Helps Safeguard Your Home Network
Good security habits are essential — but many threats can be stopped before they ever reach you.
ProtectIQ is a built-in network security feature that can be added with your Northern Lights Fiber internet service. It quietly scans all traffic entering your home network and helps block:
- Malicious websites
- Viruses and malware
- Intrusion attempts
- Unsafe downloads
- Suspicious or unusual traffic
Because ProtectIQ works at the network level, it helps protect every device connected to your Wi-Fi, including:
- Phones and laptops
- Tablets and desktop computers
- Smart TVs and streaming devices
- Gaming consoles
- Smart home systems and cameras
- Older devices that may not have strong security
Think of ProtectIQ as a 24/7 security checkpoint for your home internet.
Why ProtectIQ Matters for Modern Canadian Homes
Today’s homes are more connected than ever. Families:
- Stream shows and movies
- Work from home
- Shop and bank online
- Use smart doorbells, thermostats, and cameras
- Game, learn, and socialize online
Every new device is another potential doorway for a hacker.
ProtectIQ adds protection that traditional antivirus software alone can’t provide, making it especially helpful for homes with:
- Remote workers
- Children using school devices
- Smart home systems
- Gaming setups and guest Wi-Fi
- Multiple phones, tablets, and laptops
The more connected your home is, the more important network-level protection becomes.
Trusted Canadian Resources for Cyber Protection
To learn more about protecting your identity and staying safe online, visit:
- Equifax Canada – Credit monitoring and fraud alerts
https://www.consumer.equifax.ca/ - TransUnion Canada – Credit reports and identity protection tools
https://www.transunion.ca/ - Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – Scam alerts and reporting information
https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/ - Government of Canada – Get Cyber Safe – Practical online security advice
https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/
These resources offer clear guidance to help Canadians stay informed and proactive.
Keep Your Inbox — and Your Home — Safe
Email hacks are disruptive, but with the right tools, they’re preventable.
With strong security habits and network-level protection from ProtectIQ, you can greatly reduce your risk and keep your digital life safer.
At Northern Lights Fiber, we believe your internet should be fast, reliable, and safe. ProtectIQ helps make that possible — so you can work, stream, shop, and connect with confidence.