Online Advertisers Take Notice – Recent Canadian Decisions

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) has released two important decisions this year on online behavioural advertising (OBA or interest-based advertising) so far this year.

On March 25, 2015, the OPC released its Report of Findings regarding an investigation into Ganz's interactive website for children. On April 7, 2015, the OPC released its Report of Findings regarding Bell Canada's relevant advertising program. Some might argue that this is a misplaced priority given the OPC has yet to make a convincing case of harm, but it is clearly one that has captured the attention of the OPC. At least in the case of Bell Canada's relevant advertising program, the OPC may not have the last word. A class action has been commenced and the OPC aspects of the issue are before the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).