Article author:
The Canadian Press
OTTAWA — A congressional committee will begin investigating RCMP's use of spyware on Monday.
The House Ethics and Privacy Committee called for an investigation over the summer after the RCMP revealed it used tools to surreptitiously obtain data from devices such as phones and computers.
In 10 investigations, the RCMP said it obtained warrants to collect text messages and emails and use tools that could turn on cameras and microphones remotely.
The Civil Liberties Association of Canada has called for discussion of the necessary legal safeguards regarding the use of this technology.
Privacy and technology attorney David Fraser says it's important to give police-requested warrants a higher level of scrutiny.
Witnesses attending his scheduled two-day hearing include Public Security Minister Marcom Mendicino, his current and former Privacy Commissioner, and his RCMP officer who oversaw the use of spyware. It is included.
This Canadian Press report was first published on August 7, 2022.
