Canadian privacy & access decisions

The OPC initiated an investigation after a news report revealed an Ottawa-based website was streaming live cell phone conversations. The website was using a scanner to intercept cellular telephone traffic and broadcasting it online. During the investigation, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) hosting the website shut it down due to bandwidth issues. The ISP also terminated an employee who was responsible for the unauthorized data forwarding. The website reportedly moved to a New York server under new management. Given the shutdown of the Ottawa-based site, the OPC discontinued its investigation.

• Whether broadcasting cell phone conversations without consent constitutes unauthorized collection, use, or disclosure of personal information under PIPEDA
• Whether the OPC should continue an investigation when the alleged activity has ceased