News release: Many businesses that collect personal information are taking steps to improve privacy: OPC survey

Many businesses that collect personal information are taking steps to improve privacy: OPC survey

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) has published the results of its latest survey of Canadian businesses on privacy issues.

According to the poll, nearly three-quarters of businesses are highly aware of their privacy responsibilities, and two-thirds are highly prepared to respond to a data breach involving personal information.

Many businesses noted that they are also taking proactive steps to improve their practices. For example:

The biennial survey explores the views and practices of businesses from across Canada on issues and activities related to privacy.

This year’s survey focused exclusively on businesses that sell or offer services or products directly to individual consumers and that collect customers’ personal information.

It also included questions about artificial intelligence (AI) as well as children’s privacy, which are among Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne’s strategic priorities.

According to the survey, the proportion of businesses that use AI for business operations increased from 6% in 2023 to 16% in the most recent survey.

The survey also found that 29% of businesses reported collecting personal information from customers who are under the age of 18. Most businesses that collect personal information from minors indicated that they verify age (85%) and obtain parental consent if the child is under the age of 13 (84%). In addition, 68% report that they explain their privacy policies and practices in simple, age-appropriate language.