OTTAWA – The federal government’s use of handheld communications devices and its practices for disposing of unneeded paper documents and surplus computers could unwittingly expose the personal information of Canadians, the country’s Privacy Commissioner has warned.
The findings, stemming from two separate privacy audits conducted by the office of the Privacy Commissioner, were highlighted in the organization’s 2009-2010 annual report on the Privacy Act, tabled in Parliament Tuesday. The Act applies to federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations.
"Our audits turned up some disturbing gaps in the privacy policies and practices of government institutions," said Commissioner Jennifer Stoddart, in a statement. "Whether they’re using a BlackBerry, shredding old papers or disposing of outdated computer equipment, public servants need to know that the security of people’s personal data is a top priority."
While acknowledging that such problems are “relatively rare”, Commissioner Stoddart called the data that the government collects, for purposes such as taxation, income support, the correctional system and international travel, “highly sensitive”.
The Privacy Commissioner of Canada is mandated by Parliament to act as an ombudsman, advocate and guardian of privacy and the protection of personal information rights of Canadians.
