Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada fails to ensure that the information it used to staff a position was accurate
The complainant alleged that Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) contravened the accuracy provisions of the Privacy Act by using inaccurate information about him when staffing a position. ISED confirmed that it failed to ensure the accuracy of the information used, which was linked to the complainant’s profile in the MyGCHR human resources system. The investigation found the complaint to be well-founded.
- Whether ISED contravened the accuracy provisions of the Privacy Act.
- Whether ISED took reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of personal information used for staffing.
- The role of the MyGCHR system in the accuracy of personal information.
Complaint well-founded — corrective measures implemented
ISED confirmed that it used inaccurate information for staffing and did not take all reasonable steps to ensure accuracy by failing to validate identity beyond first and last name. However, ISED has since issued guidance to staff, satisfying the OPC that reasonable steps have been taken.
AI-generated summary for reference only. Always verify against the official decision ↗
ISED created a document to remind staff to validate identity with multiple data fields when staffing positions.
- s. 6(2) Privacy Act
This summary is informational only and not legal advice.