Week of 2024-08-16
Ontario’s Bill 194 – Proposed new privacy, cyber security and AI requirements in Ontario
Keri Bennett | Stephanie Kolla | Thaarane Sethunathan | DLA Piper
The article discusses proposed new privacy, cybersecurity, and AI requirements in Ontario. The Ontario government is considering legislation that would impose stricter privacy obligations on organizations, including enhanced cybersecurity measures and new rules governing the use of artificial intelligence. The proposed changes are part of a broader effort to modernize the province’s regulatory framework in response to evolving digital threats and technological advancements. This legislation aims to protect personal information and ensure responsible AI use in various sectors.
Online bot campaign backing Pierre Poilievre prompts call for probe by election commissioner
David Thurton | CBC News
The article discusses a rally held by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in Kirkland, Quebec, where questions were raised about the use of bots on social media to amplify support for the event. The event was marked by significant online activity, with some experts suggesting that automated accounts may have been used to boost the event's visibility. The Conservative Party denied any involvement with bots, emphasizing their organic social media strategy. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the use of bots in political campaigns.
NHS software provider faces steep fine after 2022 data breach exposed sensitive patient info
Emma Woollacott | IT Pro
An NHS software provider faces a significant fine following a 2022 data breach that exposed sensitive patient information. The breach, which involved unauthorized access to a database, compromised the personal and medical data of numerous patients. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has taken action due to the provider's failure to implement adequate security measures to protect the data. This incident underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity practices in the healthcare sector.
Police chief rules London woman's death murder-suicide, names killer
Dale Carruthers | London Free Press
London Police Chief Steve Williams has ruled the death of a London woman as a murder-suicide, naming her husband as the perpetrator. The incident involved the husband killing his wife before taking his own life. This tragic case has sparked concern and discussion within the community. For further details, you can read the full article.
Eyes in the Sky
John Lorinc | Spacing
The article "Eyes in the Sky" by John Lorinc explores the increasing use of surveillance technology in Toronto, focusing on drones and other aerial devices. It highlights the implications for privacy, civil liberties, and the regulatory challenges associated with managing these technologies. Lorinc discusses how the rise of such surveillance methods raises concerns about data collection, oversight, and the potential for abuse, calling for a public debate on the balance between security and privacy.
Privacy fear as Police Scotland explore 'Orwellian' tech for facial recognition
Graham Grant | Daily Mail
Police Scotland is considering the use of advanced facial recognition technology, raising privacy concerns. Critics worry that this "Orwellian" technology could lead to mass surveillance and infringement on civil liberties. The technology's ability to identify individuals in real-time from CCTV footage and other video sources has sparked debates over its potential misuse and the need for strict regulations to protect citizens' privacy.
QR code scam targeting pay and display parking machines, city warns
Jenna Legge | CBC News
The City of Ottawa is warning residents about a QR code scam targeting pay-and-display parking machines. Fraudsters are placing fake QR codes on these machines, which, when scanned, direct users to a fraudulent website that mimics the city's payment system. The website collects users' personal and financial information, potentially leading to identity theft or financial loss. The city advises parking users to avoid scanning any QR codes on parking machines and to use the official city website or mobile apps for payments.
What is the cost of ransomware attack on Toronto Library?
John Lorinc | Spacing
The Toronto Public Library experienced significant disruptions due to a ransomware attack in April 2024, leading to the shutdown of its digital services and branches. The financial costs include potential ransom payments, system recovery expenses, and the impact on services and operations. Beyond monetary losses, the attack compromised the library's ability to serve the public, raising concerns about the vulnerability of public institutions to cyber threats.
Appeal court strikes down law on searching phones, tablets and laptops at border
Jacques Gallant | Toronto Star
The Ontario Court of Appeal struck down a federal law that allowed border officers to search travelers' phones, tablets, and laptops without a warrant. The court ruled that the law violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, particularly the right to privacy. The decision is seen as a significant step in protecting digital privacy at the border, where previously, electronic devices could be searched without any suspicion of wrongdoing.
The Olympics Have Turned Paris Into a Panopticon
Jules Boykoff | Dave Zirin | The Nation
The article discusses the growing concerns over surveillance during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the use of advanced policing technologies, including facial recognition and drones, is planned. Critics argue that these measures may lead to excessive surveillance and potential civil liberties violations. The pushback highlights broader fears about the normalization of invasive technologies under the guise of security, with potential long-term impacts on privacy and freedom in France.
Olympics security means minorities and others flagged as potential terror threats can’t move freely
John Leicester | AP News
The article from AP News discusses the significant security measures planned for the 2024 Paris Olympics, including the use of advanced surveillance technologies like facial recognition and drones. These measures are raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties, with critics warning that such extensive surveillance could lead to abuses and long-term impacts on freedom in France. The article also highlights ongoing debates about the balance between security and individual rights during major global events.
Tackling digital sexual violence in Canada requires updated policies and procedures
Yimin Chen | Chandell Gosse | Jaigris Hodson | Kaitlynn Mendes | The Conversation
The article discusses the urgent need for updated policies and procedures in Canada to address digital sexual violence. It highlights the increasing prevalence of online harassment, non-consensual image sharing, and other forms of digital abuse, stressing the importance of stronger legal frameworks, education, and support services. The article calls for collaboration between policymakers, technology companies, and communities to create a safer digital environment, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Elon Musk’s X targeted with nine privacy complaints after grabbing EU users’ data for training Grok
Natasha Lomas | Tech Crunch
Elon Musk's social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), is facing eight privacy complaints in the EU. These complaints stem from X's alleged use of European users' data to train Grok, Musk's AI platform. The concerns focus on potential violations of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) due to the collection and processing of data without proper consent. This situation could lead to significant legal and financial consequences for the platform if found in violation.
Reform UK tracked private user information without consent
Shanti Das | The Guardian
The UK political party Reform UK reportedly tracked private user information without obtaining proper consent, raising significant privacy concerns. The incident has sparked criticism regarding the party's data practices, particularly around how personal data is collected and used without transparency. This situation could lead to further scrutiny and possible legal action, especially given the importance of data protection laws in the UK.
Australia: Privacy Act legislation overhaul expected this month
Michael Deacon | Nadine Martino | Spruson & Ferguson
Australia's Privacy Act is expected to undergo a significant overhaul this month. The changes are anticipated to enhance privacy protections, particularly in response to rapid technological advancements and increased data collection practices. The revised legislation is likely to address issues such as data breaches, consent requirements, and the handling of sensitive information, aligning Australia’s privacy framework more closely with global standards.
Australia: A clearer picture of the coming Cyber Security Bill and critical infrastructure reforms
John Macpherson | Geoff McGrath | John Moore | Andrew Hilton | Ashurst
Australia is progressing with its Cyber Security Bill and Critical Infrastructure reforms, which aim to bolster the nation's resilience against cyber threats. The reforms focus on expanding the scope of critical infrastructure sectors, enhancing reporting requirements, and introducing a positive security obligation for entities to manage risks. The bill also outlines new powers for the government to intervene during cyber incidents. These measures are designed to protect Australia's vital systems and ensure they can withstand and recover from cyberattacks.
UN cybercrime treaty passes in unanimous vote
Suzanne Smalley | The Record
The United Nations has passed a new cybercrime treaty unanimously, marking a significant step in international efforts to combat cyber threats. The treaty, which aims to enhance global cooperation and establish new standards for addressing cybercrime, was supported by all member states. The agreement will now move forward with further implementation and could have wide-ranging implications for global cybersecurity practices.
How does AI factor into privacy in the workplace?
Sarah Laing | CPA Canada
The article from CPA Canada discusses the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and privacy, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI implementation. It highlights the need for robust privacy regulations to protect individuals as AI technologies become more integrated into business operations. The article also explores the challenges and responsibilities organizations face in ensuring AI systems are transparent, fair, and aligned with privacy standards.
Canada: SCC Decision Offers Potential Insight into Privacy Rights for Private-Sector Employees
Rhonda B. Levy | Barry Kuretzky | Rabeena Obaidullah | Littler
The article from Littler discusses a Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) decision that provides potential insights into privacy rights within private workplaces. The decision sheds light on how privacy rights might be interpreted and applied, especially concerning employee information in the context of labor relations. This ruling could influence how privacy is balanced with employers' needs in managing their workplaces.
