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Posted on23 January 2012
Sharing Your Personal Information
Written by Michelle
Have you ever thought about how often you are asked for personal information? Whether it is for filling out a survey, entering a contest or returning an item, it seems like we are always asked for our names, phone numbers and email addresses. As a consumer, you have the right to ask retailers about the type of information they are requesting of you, and what they intend to do with it.
In British Columbia, the organization responsible for overseeing our privacy rights is the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner. The laws overseeing consumer privacy law is called the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). The PIPA requires businesses to protect any personal information they receive from consumers and keep it secure. It also allows consumers to request access to personal information, update incorrect information, and be told who within the business is responsible for protection your personal information.
The next time you are asked to provide some personal information about yourself, ask why. That way you are making an informed decision about whether or not you actually want to share it.
If you have any questions or would like to suggest a blog topic, feel free to leave us a comment!
Published in Tips.
Michelle
Michelle works in the Consumer Protection BC Inquiry Centre. She answers calls and emails from consumers and businesses on a wide variety of topics which makes her the perfect person to share her knowledge and experiences with you.
