Washington – As Canada’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner considers potential age assurance measures, the Computer & Communications Industry Association offered comments. CCIA argued that all age assurance measures bring inherent privacy and security concerns, requiring a careful balance against safety considerations for children online. CCIA notes that “as individuals increasingly rely on the internet for news, community, and support, age appropriate frameworks should avoid restricting freedom of expression or access to information.”
The following quote may be attributed to CCIA Policy Counsel Jesse Lieberfeld:
“It is important that Canada’s proposed age assurance guidelines recognize a range of approaches rather than prescribing a single solution. Flexibility helps protect freedom of expression and access to information while avoiding requirements that force companies to collect or retain additional sensitive personal information.”