Digital device examinations are not conducted as a matter of course, according to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
“In fact, approximately 13 in every 100, 000 travellers in the last two years have undergone this process.
“Underscoring the importance and effectiveness of those device examinations, 39.4 percent of all devices examined resulted in a customs-related offence,” said a CBSA statement on the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) of Canada’s Report on the Examination of Travellers’ Digital Devices at the Border.
CBSA is committed to greater transparency and oversight measures—including a full audit—that will better inform Canadians on what to expect with regard to digital devices at the border and ensure that the newly expanded policy is followed by officers, said the statement.
Border services officers deal with sensitive information on a daily basis. As a result, officers receive training on the individual’s right to privacy and their responsibilities regarding the collection, use, disclosure and confidentiality of sensitive information, said the CBSA.
“The CBSA recognizes that digital devices can contain sensitive personal information and that protecting privacy is of great importance. At the same time, there can also be information on digital devices that is key for the agency to fulfill its mission to ensure the security and prosperity of Canada by managing the access of people and goods into Canada,” it added.
Policy recommendations
The agency has already addressed six of the policy recommendations included in the OPC’s report of findings, and is enacting a number of actions to ensure strong border protection and respect for travellers’ privacy…the CBSA is reviewing the proposed legislative amendments provided by the OPC.
The agency is committed to respecting the privacy of all travellers to Canada while fulfilling its mandate of protecting the Canadian border.