Looking Ahead

Safeguarding the privacy of Canadians

As I have previously observed, CSE's foreign intelligence collection technology must constantly progress to keep pace with advances in communications technology. Despite the efficiencies inherent in new technologies, CSE is still likely to receive inadvertently some small amount of Canadian communications. Moreover, each new collection system or technique that comes on stream seems to bring with it this potential. However, CSE is well aware that it must continually upgrade its capabilities to screen out Canadian communications or risk acting unlawfully if it does not make every effort to do so.

In this regard, I have informed CSE that, in addition to my other review activities, I will be seeking assurance that it is availing itself of all emerging technologies to ensure that the privacy of Canadians is safeguarded.