There are “significant gaps” in the way the federal government responds to the increasing number of dangerous cyberattacks, a new report from the federal auditor general revealed.

The report, tabled in the House of Commons on Tuesday morning, found co-ordination among the agencies tasked with protecting the federal government’s IT systems and operations was insufficient during active attacks and that not all departments use the recommended protections.

In at least one case, those delays allowed “the attacker prolonged access to personal information.”

“Gaps in cybersecurity defences undermine the government’s ability to protect critical information and manage cybersecurity risks,” said the report.

The audit found the three agencies responsible for cyber defence — the Treasury Board of

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