BreachOfPrivacy
Decisions/Federal (Canada)/Privacy Act/Errant report sparks procedural changes at prison
Office of the Privacy Commissioner of CanadaPrivacy ActWell-founded
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Errant report sparks procedural changes at prison

Organization: Correctional Service of Canada
Decision: Nov 17, 2011Published: Nov 17, 2011

Two prisoners complained after a report containing their personal information was found among a fellow inmate's belongings. An investigation determined that a contract worker printed the report, which was then accessible to a welding instructor. While the report was later discovered with another inmate's effects, it could not be determined how it got there. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner confirmed the privacy rights of the complainants had been breached.

  • Unauthorized disclosure of personal information
  • Safeguarding of personal information by staff and contractors
  • Accountability for handling sensitive reports

Complaint well-founded — corrective measures taken

The investigation confirmed that the complainants' privacy rights were breached when a report containing their personal information was improperly accessed and subsequently misplaced. However, the institution implemented corrective measures, including changing how the report is accessed and enhancing training, which satisfied the Office.

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Recommended action / remedy

The institution changed procedures to no longer print the report and enhanced training on safeguarding personal information.

This summary is informational only and not legal advice.