For the first time in a generation, British Columbia's Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) is about to undergo substantive change. Billed by the government as a way to "help B.C. keep pace with new technology, strengthen privacy protections and improve services for thousands of people who request information each year," it will also make public bodies … [Read more...] about BC Fiddles with FOI
Legislation
Public Interest Disclosure
Ontario’s access laws contain a “public interest override” provision that requires a public sector organization to “override” the application of certain exemptions, and disclose a record in situations where there is a compelling public interest in doing so that clearly outweighs the purpose of the exemption. To help public sector organizations and the public understand the … [Read more...] about Public Interest Disclosure
Building Back Better Requires Strong, Effective Regulation of Digital World
Privacy Commissioner Daniel Therrien called on Canada's new parliament to adopt modern, rights-based privacy laws that reflect Canadian values and support responsible innovation. Providing businesses of the 4th industrial revolution more flexibility and certainty in the extraction of value from personal data is not the way to accomplish that or to engender the public's trust. … [Read more...] about Building Back Better Requires Strong, Effective Regulation of Digital World
When it comes to QR codes, cyber-security experts urge caution
Since the start of the pandemic in 2020, an urgency to bounce back in the new normal has led to the use of QR codes at restaurants and other businesses. However, this surging trend has led to numerous red flags from privacy and cyber-security experts, as they urge Canadians to be cautious in how they use this technology. What concerns should we be watching out for? Sharon … [Read more...] about When it comes to QR codes, cyber-security experts urge caution
Proposed or predetermined approach to address harmful content online
Within hours of Elections Canada confirming the results of the 44th general federal election, the Government of Canada revealed that, of more than 100 platform promises, ten will receive special attention. Among them are three new laws that would require "web giants" to examine and analyze all web content and ensure Canadians cannot see hurtful online content deemed to … [Read more...] about Proposed or predetermined approach to address harmful content online
