PIPEDA
What does PIPEDA mean?
PIPEDA is a Canadian federal law that governs how private-sector organizations collect, use, and disclose personal information during commercial activities. Enacted in 2000, it aims to protect individuals' privacy while balancing the need for businesses to handle personal data.
How does PIPEDA work?
PIPEDA sets out ten Fair Information Principles that businesses must follow, including accountability, consent, limiting collection, and safeguarding information. Organizations must obtain meaningful consent from individuals before collecting their personal data and use it only for stated purposes. They must also provide access to that data upon request and correct it if inaccurate.
PIPEDA is vital for building consumer trust in the digital economy. It helps individuals control how their data is used and ensures businesses handle that data responsibly. It also aligns Canadian businesses with global privacy expectations, which is especially relevant when interacting with jurisdictions like the EU under GDPR.
FAQs about PIPEDA
It applies to private-sector organizations across Canada that collect, use, or disclose personal information in the course of commercial activities, except in provinces with substantially similar laws.
Any information about an identifiable individual, such as name, age, ID numbers, income, or opinions.
Yes, organizations must obtain meaningful consent, but it can be implied in some contexts unless sensitive data is involved.
Yes, individuals have the right to request access to their personal data and know how it’s being used.
The Privacy Commissioner can investigate complaints, issue non-binding recommendations, and apply to the Federal Court for enforceable orders.