CSGA Security Policy

1.      YOUR ONLINE SECURITY

The Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA) takes protecting your information seriously. To safeguard your data, CSGA uses 256-bit encryption across its online platforms.

CSGA implements multiple layers of security to ensure secure access to your SeedCert account, including but not limited to:

• Establishing a secure connection between your device and CSGA systems.
• Utilizing anti-virus protection and continuously updating software to detect and prevent malicious activity.
• Deploying robust security systems to block unauthorized access to our servers.
• Conducting security monitoring to detect suspicious traffic patterns and potential threats.

CSGA continually monitors security developments and updates our systems to maintain a secure online environment whenever it is reasonable and practical to do so.

2.      AUTHENTICATION

For your protection, access to secure areas of the CSGA website requires authentication using your username and password or, where applicable, multi-factor authentication. Your password should always remain confidential to prevent unauthorized access to your account and information.

You may be required to update your password periodically. If you have difficulty accessing your account due to an incorrect password, please contact CSGA’s Client Support at (613) 236-0497, ext. 8803.

3.      SECURE LOGIN FROM YOUR DEVICE

Upon successful login to secure areas of the CSGA website, your web browser establishes a secure connection with our servers. This ensures that your communications and transactions remain private and protected. To verify a secure connection, look for the padlock symbol in your browser or check that the address bar begins with “https://”.

For additional protection, our system is designed to automatically terminate sessions after extended periods of inactivity. If your session ends, you will need to log in again to continue your activities.

4.      ONLINE SERVICES LOGIN ACTIVITY

To enhance security, CSGA tracks recent login activity, including the date, time, and approximate location of access.

Note that login locations are based on your IP address, which may not always match your actual physical location, especially if you are on a mobile network. If you notice unusual activity on your account, we recommend changing your password immediately and contacting CSGA support at (613) 236-0497, ext. 8803.

5.      KEEPING YOUR COMPUTER SAFE

Using your personal computer to access online services involves some risks, such as exposure to malware or viruses that can damage your system or compromise your information. To protect yourself:

• Educate yourself about online security best practices, including social engineering attacks like email spoofing and phishing.
• Install and update anti-virus software regularly.
• Utilize a personal firewall to protect your device from external threats.
• Be cautious when downloading files or clicking on links from unknown sources, as they may contain malicious software.

Please note that internet communication, including emails, may not always be secure. CSGA cannot guarantee the privacy or security of information transmitted over the Internet.

CSGA does not assume liability for any computer viruses, malware, or other destructive programs encountered through electronic transmissions related to our website.

Approved By: The Board of Directors on November 27, 2024
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
Last Reviewed: November 2024
Next Review No Later Than: November 2026