Bill to Help Authorities Probe Online Activities Raises Widespread Privacy Fears

Bill to Help Authorities Probe Online Activities Raises Widespread Privacy Fears
A Facebook privacy tab is displayed on a computer screen showing a Facebook Help Centre page in Ottawa on Sept. 10, 2024. The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick
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A Liberal government bill that would make it easier for police and spies to navigate the online world is running into fierce opposition from major digital companies, civil liberties groups and law professors who say it would open the door to serious privacy infringements.

The government says the bill—“An Act respecting lawful access”—will ensure law enforcement agencies have the legal tools to prevent, investigate and respond to modern crime and protect Canadians in a manner consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.