Alberta’s Information and Privacy Commissioner has launched a formal investigation into allegations that personal information from the province’s List of Electors was improperly collected, used and disclosed.
The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) says the investigation is focused on Centurion Project Ltd., which was notified of the investigation on May 6. The inquiry will determine whether the company’s actions may have violated Alberta’s Personal Information Protection Act, known as PIPA.
According to the Commissioner’s office, the investigation will examine whether Centurion had legal authority to collect, use or disclose the personal information, whether appropriate security safeguards were in place to protect it, and whether the company met its duty to notify in the event of a privacy breach. Additional issues may be reviewed as the investigation progresses.
RCMP take carriage
At the same time, Alberta RCMP confirms it has carriage of a related criminal investigation into the alleged misuse of the elector list. Police say they are uniquely positioned to engage investigative resources at the local, provincial, national or international level as required.
Significant public interest
The RCMP say it recognizes the significant public interest surrounding the case and note the apparent inappropriate release of personal information is of concern to both the public and police. However, officials say details are limited at this stage in order to protect the integrity of the investigation, including confirming or denying claims made by third parties.
The public is being encouraged to rely on official statements released by the RCMP.
The Privacy Commissioner’s office says once the formal investigation concludes, it may issue findings and recommendations, order compliance if non‑compliance is found, or release a public investigation report.
