by Michael McEvoy - Information and Privacy Commissioner for BC
This year, as the Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) mark Privacy Awareness Week, there couldn’t be a more important time to talk about the need to protect personal information. I spoke about this very topic last week to a gathering of small business owners, communications professionals, and government employees.
by Drew McArthur - Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
I recently spoke about the Internet of Things and Big Data at a healthcare summit in Vancouver. Well, let’s be honest and call it what it really is - the Internet of Everything. From the rubber ducky in your child’s bathtub to your smart tea kettle, the array of connected devices on the market today seems almost limitless.
by Drew McArthur - Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
A few weeks ago, my office and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC-Canada) co-hosted the 48th Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) Forum in Vancouver. From November 15-17, APPA officials from 14 member jurisdictions and invited guests shared insights and perspectives, discussed global privacy trends, exchanged experiences, and looked for opportunities for joint regulatory guidance and enforcement activities across the Asia Pacific Region.
by Drew McArthur - Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
From September 25 to October 2 we are celebrating Right to Know week to raise awareness of our right to access government records, essential to democracy and good governance.
by Drew McArthur - Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
I was invited to speak to this group because Selkirk College has been awarded a three-year federal grant to explore open data and open government in rural B.C. The organizers asked me to share my views about open data, including where datasets should be published, and what data should be considered sensitive and private.
by Elizabeth Denham - Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
In our complex digital age, tensions between law enforcement agencies and tech companies continue to tighten. I do not underestimate the challenges posed by international terrorism, particularly after recent attacks around the world. But I wonder: what is proper oversight and supervision of the surveillance activities of national security and law enforcement agencies?
by Elizabeth Denham - Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
The digital economy requires no passport… no special visa. But there’s a problem: different legal systems and cultural norms about privacy make the flow of information across borders a complicated undertaking.
by Elizabeth Denham - Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
Last week, my office was proud to host an important conference in Vancouver called Privacy and Access 20/20: The Future of Privacy. The conference sessions were thought-provoking, timely and prescient.
by Elizabeth Denham - Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
On Nov. 12 and 13, the OIPC will host “Privacy and Access 20/20: The Future of Privacy" with our partner, Reboot Communications. The conference will bring stakeholders from the public, private and non-profit sectors together at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel for some thought-provoking, content from experts in industry, government, academic institutions and civil society. Here are some thoughts on the topic from Commissioner Elizabeth Denham.
by Elizabeth Denham - Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
Every year I look forward to Right to Know week, because it gives us a chance to celebrate and acknowledge the value of access to information rights. As an avid book-lover and dedicated book-club member, it seemed like a good opportunity to share some of my top picks for books that could find a home in the "access to information" section of your bookshelf.
B.C. Information and Privacy Commissioner Elizabeth Denham released the following statement in recognition of Right to Know Week, Sept. 28 to Oct. 4, 2015:
“I am delighted to join my colleagues across Canada and around the world in celebration of Right to Know Week. This international movement raises awareness of the rights of all citizens to access information that is held by public bodies. It also showcases the benefits of open and accessible government."
by Elizabeth Denham - Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C.
I'm pleased to welcome you to the OIPC Privacy and Access Blog.
With our new blog, we hope to demystify, inform and share our work with you. We’ve created a space for in-depth commentary, the latest news about access and information, surprising facts about privacy and access in British Columbia, interesting quotes, tips about how to better protect your personal data and much more. We hope you’ll join the conversation.
This month, learn about accountability and the benefits of implementing a privacy management program. We have several online tools for you to explore, including two webinars (each with printer-friendly notes), a video, and podcast. Dig a little deeper with our related guidance documents, then take our privacy assessment challenge.
