How is it possible for my personal records to be accessible under the USA PATRIOT Act?
• Today’s information technologies, such as the Internet, make it easy for organizations and individuals to exchange information quickly around the globe. The transfer of information across borders, including personal and sensitive information, is known as “transborder data flow”. • Transborder data flows are becoming more common as companies and governments take advantage of outsourcing. • In today’s global economy, suppliers can be located anywhere in the world. Even if a domestic supplier is chosen, it may have offices located in other countries. • When a supplier is hired to administer personal information and any part of its operations, including subcontractors, are outside of Canada, then the laws of the other country (or countries) may be applicable to information stored or accessible electronically in the foreign country. If a company located in the United States or with U.S. connections is hired, then the USA PATRIOT Act may be applicable.
