Data Breach Prevention and the Canadian Consumer

Author

Alexandre Plourde

Organization

Option consommateurs

Published

2021

Summary

Over the last few years, many Canadian companies have fallen victim to data breaches. Given the extent of personal information available online, large amounts of sensitive data are vulnerable to security leaks. These breaches may expose consumers to identity theft and financial loss. It has also been reported that many cybersecurity experts are critical of the lack of countermeasures that protect Canadian consumers and businesses from attacks.

The purpose of this study is to review security breaches and find solutions to avoid future attacks.

The study looks at security breaches and the issues they create for businesses and consumers alike. It includes an analysis of terms of use, privacy policies and other information published by companies popular with Canadian internet users. The study also included a nationwide survey, focus groups representing a cross-section of Canadian internet users and a review of the legal framework for consumer data protection in Canada and abroad.

The survey results suggest that more has to be done to develop reliable data protection measures. The study called for governments to strengthen personal information protection laws which would allow regulators to impose harsher fines and issue orders that companies must follow. In addition, companies need to better inform consumers of their obligations regarding securing their personal information, such as the importance of using strong passwords. It also suggests that the responsibility companies place on consumers to protect their data be fair and legal.

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OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database