The Canadian Privacy Law Blog: Developments in privacy law and writings of a Canadian privacy lawyer, containing information related to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (aka PIPEDA) and other Canadian and international laws.

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The author of this blog, David T.S. Fraser, is a Canadian privacy lawyer who practices with the firm of McInnes Cooper. He is the author of the Physicians' Privacy Manual. He has a national and international practice advising corporations and individuals on matters related to Canadian privacy laws.

For full contact information and a brief bio, please see David's profile.

Please note that I am only able to provide legal advice to clients. I am not able to provide free legal advice. Any unsolicited information sent to David Fraser cannot be considered to be solicitor-client privileged.

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The views expressed herein are solely the author's and should not be attributed to his employer or clients. Any postings on legal issues are provided as a public service, and do not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained herein or linked to. Nothing herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of competent counsel.

This web site is presented for informational purposes only. These materials do not constitute legal advice and do not create a solicitor-client relationship between you and David T.S. Fraser. If you are seeking specific advice related to Canadian privacy law or PIPEDA, contact the author, David T.S. Fraser.

Saturday, October 30, 2004

For those in the loop, RFID is a privacy concern 

Government Technology is reporting a recent survey that has determined that, among those who are aware of RFID, 63% of those polled are concerned about the privacy issues related to the emerging technology. The surveyed consumers said that government, followed by "crooks and bad guys," banks, insurance companies and credit card companies are the most likely to abuse their privacy without their knowledge and consent.

Study Detailing RFID Privacy Concerns Released:

"....Consumers express being more concerned with privacy issues today than ever before. And with many forms becoming electronic, they are cautious about divulging personal information and are taking active steps to protect themselves such as checking to make sure websites are secure before submitting information and shredding paper and mail received unsolicited at home. Many believe their personal information is easily obtained by companies through magazine subscriptions and frequent-buyer programs implemented by grocery stores and airlines.

Although consumers recognize the "perks" of being rewarded for loyal shopping behavior, they are also concerned that their information is not protected and will be shared without their permission. "Almost everyone knows somebody lately who has had a bad experience with privacy invasion, credit card abuse or identify theft," said Linda Stegeman, president of Artafact. "In online focus groups, they recount stories of friends or families who have been affected by institutions or crooks and bad guys getting access to their personal information."

Only 35% of consumers concerned about protecting their personal information believe that RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a "good idea." However, they also recognize the business benefits of easily tracking merchandise and preventing theft. Many consumers think they will not reap any benefit from RFID technology and are concerned with the potential for misuse, given the "lack of safeguards."

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