It’s the law. So why don’t businesses have a Privacy Policy?

News Release - August 27, 2005

London, ON. Since January 2004, most businesses have been required to have a written privacy policy under PIPEDA. Why do we not see more of them posted? There is lots of good information available to help organizations develop one, but many don’t seem to have made the effort.

Bill Gilbert of On Target Presentations in London believes one reason may be that people don't believe it applies to them? (It probably does!) Another might be they are overwhelmed and need help getting started. That is why he recently created Can You Keep a Secret? Drafting a privacy policy beyond PIPEDA, a self directed program on CD to help business people understand the act and to walk them through the process of writing one.

Perhaps businesses don’t see any benefits other than meeting the legislated requirement. Yet, there are a number of sound business reasons why an organization should develop and implement a privacy policy.

“In light of several high profile media reports about identity theft and unauthorized access to financial information, people are concerned about why a business needs certain personal information and how they intend to keep it secure.” explained Gilbert, adding “As well, having a privacy policy avoids customer confusion, demonstrates good business practices and builds trust with the customer.”

Perhaps if customers asked more frequently, there would be a greater incentive for business to develop and communicate good privacy policies.

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For more information contact:
Bill Gilbert
Partner, On Target Presentations (www.ontargetpresentations.ca)
Business Coach, W.A. Gilbert & Associates ( www.gilbertassociates.ca )

Phone 519-680-0262
E-mail bill@ontargetpresentations.ca