Last year, as you completed your census questionnaire, you may have wondered: is my information safe and private? The answer: most definitely! Here are some quick facts about how Statistics Canada keeps data confidential:
- Statistics Canada uses state-of-the-art tools, software and processes that keeps your information safe, and ensures the confidentiality and privacy of individual data.
- The Privacy Act and the Statistics Act guide our actions by law.
- Under these laws, Statistics Canada cannot hand over anyone’s personal information—not to the police, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Canada Revenue Agency or even the courts.
- Statistics Canada continues to collaborate with experts from businesses and academia around the world, as well as the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, to develop new statistical methods based on necessity and proportionality.
The way that data are collected is constantly evolving and improving. In the current digital age, information needs are growing, and new data sources offer new possibilities for information. As this happens, protecting Canadians’ privacy remains a top priority. To learn more about Statistics Canada’s dedication to trust and privacy, explore the Trust Centre.
Contact information
For more information, contact the Statistical Information Service (toll-free 1-800-263-1136; 514-283-8300; infostats@statcan.gc.ca) or Media Relations (statcan.mediahotline-ligneinfomedias.statcan@statcan.gc.ca).