Have Yourself a Little Privacy this Holiday,
says Privacy Commissioner of Canada
As Canadians of all ages receive gifts this holiday season that will enable them to connect with each other and go online, they need to be smart about protecting their personal information, says Canada’s Privacy Commissioner, Jennifer Stoddart.
Companies are encouraging young users to become more involved in their toys and gameplay. Where this used to mean special membership cards and fan magazines, today young Canadians are being encouraged to visit dedicated product sites, sign up for mobile applications and even join social networks with other fans.
“Not long ago, a phone was just a phone and a stuffed toy was something to cuddle with. Now many mobile devices are telephones, computers and cameras, all in one. And many stuffed animals come with codes that allow kids to register them online, so that they can play games, feed and care for them, and even chat and play with other kids,” says Ms. Stoddart. “And while such toys and gadgets can be fun, we want people to enjoy them without putting their privacy and personal information at risk.”