The vast amounts of personal information now collected, used, and transferred to third party organizations for a variety of reasons is a trend that will surely grow as we move towards automation and digitalization. Data is also a vital component to ensure public health. With the growing importance of data comes increased concern from individuals about how, when, why, and by … [Read more...] about Privacy in the COVID-19 era
Legislation
Public Health Privacy Predicament
In a world of political monkey-see-monkey-do, in which our own Prime Minister has assured that "there is nothing we won't do” to keep Canadians safe, comes a new and credible threat to Canadians' privacy, freedoms, and democratic institutions from the other side of the globe. On May 8th, New Zealand was applauded for proactively publishing several dozen papers that … [Read more...] about Public Health Privacy Predicament
FOIP Response Time Triples
As part of the Government of Alberta's response to the COVID-19 pandemic emergency, a Ministerial Order was issued that extends the time for public bodies to respond to requests for information from 30 to 90 days. Read the Ministerial Order … [Read more...] about FOIP Response Time Triples
Library of Canadian COVID-19 Emergency Measures
Governments across Canada and around the world have been imposing a plethora of measures in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. While those measures are important for public health, many of them have profound implications for privacy, fundamental freedoms, and the ability to gain access to information and hold those same governments to account. University of Ottawa law … [Read more...] about Library of Canadian COVID-19 Emergency Measures
Get to Know Your Right to Know
The Privacy and Access Council of Canada is among the 40 countries and 60 non-governmental organizations that participate in the annual celebration of International Right to Know Day to raise awareness about governments’ decision-making processes. Exercising the right to gain access to information is a vital aspect of democracy and good governance that is necessary for the … [Read more...] about Get to Know Your Right to Know
Cybercrime is a Growth Industry
How often have you marveled at a child’s cleverness? They quickly catch on to new concepts — whether how to dress their latest doll, ride a bike, or use their parent’s cellphone or tablet. The newfound skills are acquired and honed at the child’s pace, typically with plenty of encouragement but little guidance. Long before many children are taught about online safety they … [Read more...] about Cybercrime is a Growth Industry
