At a time when computerization and sharing of personal and confidential information are widespread, citizens and businesses are concerned about protecting themselves from cyber crime and fraud associated with computerized transactions, including:

• Identity theft
• Cloning of credit and debit cards
• Industrial espionage

Governments have also become sensitive to these matters, especially since September 11, 2001, and are putting in place increasingly sophisticated national security systems.

According to IDC, global security expenditures totalled $35 billion in 2007 and should rise to $72 billion in 2011.

In this rapidly growing sector, Québec can stand out and become a leader in the computer security industry. Québec already has more than 80 companies that specialize in this area and many universities turning out highly qualified manpower. Québec is also not far from the United States, the largest consumer of security products.

Québec companies are involved in various technological areas related to security, including:

• Fibre optics and specialized components for military and aerospace applications
• Advanced-vision, infrared, image-processing and 3D-characterization systems
• Radio frequency systems for military communications and advanced radar
• Highly specialized measurement and analysis instruments for space and remote sensing
• Biometric systems

SGF can help Québec’s security technology companies reach the level of development they require to occupy a choice place on the national and international markets.