GATINEAU – The Privacy Commissioner of Canada will zero in on health devices during this year’s international internet privacy sweep into the the Internet of Things (IoT).
An initiative of the Global Privacy Enforcement Network, this year's sweep will take place April 11 – 15 and will involve a number of data protection authorities from around the world, including the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC).
The goal of the international sweep is to increase public and business awareness of privacy rights and responsibilities, encourage compliance with privacy legislation, identify concerns that may be addressed through targeted education or enforcement, and enhance cooperation among privacy enforcement authorities.
Concerns raised during the sweep may result in follow-up work such as outreach to organizations and/or enforcement action. The results of the sweep will be compiled and made public in the fall.
"Connected devices, such as fitness trackers, smart scales, sleep monitors and other health related products, are capable of capturing some of our most intimate data," said Commissioner Daniel Therrien, in a statement Monday. "Given the sensitivity of the information, it is imperative that the companies behind such devices are transparent about what they collect, how the information will be used and with whom the data will be shared. I'm pleased the Sweep will focus on this important area under the Internet of Things banner."
