In the months since the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics undertook a study of “on-device investigative tools” used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the use of spyware by police and governments has garnered significant interest internationally. The report that details the Committee’s observations relating to the RCMP’s use of on‑device … [Read more...] about Statement from the Privacy & Access Council of Canada following the release of the ETHI Committee’s report of Device Investigative Tools Used by the RCMP
Technology
Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics on its Study of the RCMP’s Use of Device Investigation Tools
PACC President Sharon Polsky MAPP appeared before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (ETHI) to take part in its study related to the use of device investigation tools by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Ms Polsky’s remarks addressed the use of Pegasus and other spyware by RCMP and other law enforcement … [Read more...] about Appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics on its Study of the RCMP’s Use of Device Investigation Tools
3rd Review of the Treasury Board Directive on Automated Decision-Making
The rapid pace of digital transformation in the federal government has made questions around the purpose and scope of automation increasingly relevant. The 3rd review of the Treasury Board Directive on Automated Decision-Making takes stock of the current state of the policy instrument and identifies several risks and challenges to the federal government’s commitment to … [Read more...] about 3rd Review of the Treasury Board Directive on Automated Decision-Making
Personal Digital Devices at the Border
A great deal of consternation and confusion recently arose thanks to the language in a new piece of legislation introduced in the Senate on 29 March 2022. Bill S-7, which amends s. 99(1)(a) of the Customs Act, is intended to remedy a deficiency in that legislation which, until now, has had no specific criteria for searching personal digital devices. Indeed, the Customs … [Read more...] about Personal Digital Devices at the Border
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
