Does An IP Address Qualify As Personal Information?

In a recent 5:4 decision, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that IP addresses carry a reasonable expectation of privacy and should be considered personal information. This landmark decision means that requests for IP addresses by law enforcement now constitute a "search" under Section 8 of the Charter. The ruling has significant implications for Canadian businesses and public-sector organizations that collect and store IP addresses, requiring them to review their practices and policies to ensure compliance.

In a split 5:4 decision, the Supreme Court of Canada ("SCC") recently decided that an IP address carries a reasonable expectation of privacy and should be considered personal information.