“Laws are created to protect citizens.” This statement proves true in the case of the new privacy law enacted by the Canadian government. As the world grows digitized, the importance of these kinds of laws becomes more evident.
There’s a growing concern among internet users regarding their privacy and security. Well, their concerns are quite valid since many websites and internet apps require private data such as location, bank details, or name of a close relative, among other vital information. Consequently, these apps need to be regulated via certain laws.
What is the new Privacy law in Canada? How does this law help you? What can you do if your rights are violated? How can you remove your private information removed from the internet? These questions and more will be answered in this article. Sit back and read on!
Critical Cyber Systems Protection Act (CCSPA)
The Act respecting Cyber Security, or as it is fondly called, Bill C-26, was enacted in a bid to further regulate and provide better supervision for internet service providers. It outlines several requirements that these private agencies must provide and the government agencies that oversee their work and activities.
The objectives of this bill are quite simple:
- To reduce or eliminate cybercrime for all Canadians
- To ensure there is better security on all internet services
- To empower the government to respond to cybercrime and cybersecurity threats in the country
The bill was officially introduced by the House of Commons in Canada in June 2022. It has two specific parts.
The first part limits or removes the authority of some telecommunication companies to use certain web services. This strict measure ensures that telecommunication service providers understand their responsibility and take the threat of cybercrime seriously.
The second part of the bill introduces a new act – the CCSPA. It provides a structure and framework that guides the activities and service delivery of all internet service providers in Canada. It also outlines different government agencies and the internet services they oversee.
Responsibilities of Telecommunication Companies in Canada as Required by the CCSPA
The CCSPA outlines certain responsibilities for telecommunication companies to operate in Canada. Some of them include the following:
- A transparent and accountable cybercrime reporting system
- A government-approved cybersecurity program to train and equip workers to handle cybercrime concerns
- Creation of a standard record of cybersecurity attacks and measures to control them.
Companies that are compliant with these regulations can operate under the Act. These companies must also be fully compliant with other government regulations to ensure the elimination of cybercrime as well as the safety of Canadians.
What to do if Your Private Data is Leaked?
If unfortunately, you become a victim of cybercrime, perhaps your private information was released without your consent, all hope is not lost. Per the CCSPA, your data can be removed from public view.
In addition, it is possible to take several preventive measures to avoid the likelihood of falling victim to cybercrime in the future such as:
- Using strong credentials and multi-factor authentication
- Avoiding unsecured Wi-fi networks for carrying out online shopping or banking operations
- Installing security software such as anti-virus scanners and VPNs
- Customizing privacy settings on social media
- Physically destroying expired bank cards and government-issued documents
- Bewaring of suspicious emails, text, and/or text messages
- Removing your private information from data broker sites
Conclusion
Cybercrime is a serious social phenomenon. It permeates almost every aspect of daily life, from banking operations to healthcare. As such, the government of Canada has taken adequate measures to ensure cybersecurity via its recent privacy law. More so, Canadian citizens can rest assured as they access the services of data removal companies if their private data gets leaked.
