Michael Geist
Dr. Michael Geist is a law professor at the University of Ottawa where he holds the Canada Research Chair in Internet and E-commerce Law. He is an syndicated columnist on technology law issues and writes a regular column for the Toronto Star and the Ottawa Citizen. Dr. Geist is the editor of From "Radical Extremism" to "Balanced Copyright": Canadian Copyright and the Digital Agenda (2010) and In the Public Interest: The Future of Canadian Copyright Law (2005), both published by Irwin Law. He edits several monthly technology law publications, and is the author of a popular blog on Internet and intellectual property law issues.
Dr. Geist serves on many boards, including the CANARIE Board of Directors, the Canadian Legal Information Institute Board of Directors, the Privacy Commissioner of Canada’s Expert Advisory Board, the Electronic Frontier Foundation Advisory Board, and on the Information Program Sub-Board of the Open Society Institute.
He can reached here.
Reporting beat: Technology law and policy
Twitter: @mgeist
Personal website: michaelgeist.ca
Stories by Michael Geist
CETA Failure Reflects Public Rejection of Sweeping Trade Deals
Don’t blame EU unreasonableness for saying no to bad agreement with Canada.
Canada’s Innovation Sector Ripe for Trolls
Government should install safeguards against abuse of intellectual property rights.
Fight Piracy? Canadian Creators More Concerned with Fighting Obscurity
Punishing pirates a low priority for rights holders, who prefer to focus on supporting legitimate services, study finds.
Do You Consent? Four Ways to Strengthen Digital Privacy
Yay or nay? Often businesses don’t bother asking if you wish to share your online info.
Why Canada’s E-Library Is Barren
Slow going national digitization plan leaves virtual shelves empty.
Pokémon Go Brings New ‘Augmented Reality’ Legal Issues to Light
Not to mention the whole issue of trespassing. Play safe, kids.
CETA Is a Trade Deal in Trouble
Despite politicians' optimism, Canadian and European pact still faces enormous challenges.
Next Net Neutrality Battle: 'Zero Rating'
Canadian regulator launches consultation on ISPs exempting certain content from data charges.
How a File-sharing Lawsuit Could Erode Your Internet Privacy
Downloaders should pay attention to this 'reverse class action' filed by a film company.
Court's Ban on Some Set-Top Boxes Threat to Innovation
Ruling tips balance with injunction blocking disruptive technology with both legal and illegal uses.
Fixing Surveillance Starts with Spy Agencies Coming Clean
Full airing of practices needed in wake of privacy breaches, metadata sharing.
Let's Get Innovative, Aussie-Style
Canada should look Down Under for a roadmap to balance innovation and intellectual property.
Sorry, Gov't Still Secretly Grabbing Your Private Info
Despite reforms, law agencies, telecoms keep ducking transparency.
If TPP Deal Dies, Canada's Got a Great Plan B
In fact, an alternate strategy to open up key Asian markets already exists.
Liberals Signal New Telecom Policy, Promote Open Access
First sign: rejecting Bell appeal of CRTC decision on broadband infrastructure.
CanCon Makeover: Let's Get Creative
Enough with the Netflix tax. Here's how to really shake up our culture.
Digital Cancon Review: Be Wary of Old Whine in New Bottles
Canadian content policies will soon go under the microscope. Who'll benefit?
Leadership Sorely Needed on Canada's Broadband Strategy
Ongoing internet access hearing shows feds must step up.
Copyright Law for the Blind Needs Fine Tuning
Liberal bill responds to global movement to create and export accessible works.
On Affordable Internet Access, Everyone Can Help
Thousands of Canadians are still offline, owing to lack of access or affordability.
Out of Tune? Docs Reveal Concerns about Ontario Music Fund Assessments
Grant request for Juno Awards sparked internal controversy.
Liberals Move to Stop Billion-Dollar Start-Ups from Fleeing South
But we're still a long way from replicating US's innovation environment.
What Do Canadians Think about TPP? US Might Not Care
American demands would likely trump our concerns about mega trade deal.
School Copyright Ruling Strikes Fair Balance for Creators and Users
Decision largely affirms how education system has treated copying in the past.
Skinny TV: Fewer Channels, More Competition?
Flying under public radar, basic cable packages open door to choice.
America's Rotten Request to Unlock an Apple iPhone
If law enforcement win right to security backdoor, everyone's privacy suffers.
Provinces: Tell Us How Music Funds Help Local Artists
Details of Ontario's $30 million program go unheard as BC pledges new money.
City Councils Oppose Mayors in Latest Broadband Battle
Ottawa and Toronto motions support CRTC decision on open access web.
Do Canada's Struggling Media Need an Intervention?
Dark days for traditional newsmakers. But appetite for digital upstarts show journalism isn't dead.
Canada Will Sign TPP Thursday, but Deal Far from Done
Feds have promised wide consultation. Here's what should happen next.
Telecoms Must Defend Our Privacy, Court Confirms
Ontario decision orders companies to represent subscribers' interests.
Thanks to TPP, Canada Could Get Caught in Global Privacy Battle
Trade deal coupled with EU court decision could spell trouble for our laws.
Who's Innovative Now? Calgary Backs Open Access Web
City takes a different view than Toronto, Ottawa over future of broadband services.
Eight Tricky Tech Decisions Looming over Trudeau
Revamping Bill C-51, tackling his first big wireless fight... many tough calls await our PM.
The Year in Tech Law and Digital Brouhaha, from A to Z
The deals, bills and court cases that garnered headlines in 2015.
Big Pharma Rewarded as Drug Prices Keep Soaring
Trade deals bolster company patents, while consumers face rising costs.
Don't Ban Uber, Regulate It
How to forge a compromise that takes seriously the biggest Uber worries.
Three Heated Debates on Canada's Copyright Horizon
Documents suggest VPN overhaul, website blocking on gov't agenda.
Quebec's Online Gambling Law Threatens Canada's Open Web
New bill violates long-standing principle: 'Thou shall not block.'
Post Paris, Are Canada's Internet Privacy Laws at Risk?
Attacks may renew calls to go beyond Bill C-51 and restrict encryption technologies.
Why TPP Is a Canadian Digital Policy Failure
American-style copyright extension, digital lock rules may hamstring our innovation sector.
Copyright Case Spotlights Canada's Digital Lock Problem
How circumventing a news paywall became an $11,470 infringement lawsuit.
Under Trudeau, a Battle over Internet and Cultural Policy Looms
At stake: are web companies cultural distributors? Should they pay broadcast contributions?
C-51, TPP Top List of 'Real Change' Tech Priorities
Digital policies took election backseat, but action expected early in Trudeau's term.
Veiled TPP Deal Holds Hidden Privacy Risks
It would restrict governments from creating safeguards for your sensitive data.
Why Wouldn't a Public Broadcaster Air a National Election Debate?
But CBC refused, and that's not the only odd choice it made this campaign.
Still Time to Make Affordable Internet an Election Issue
For starters: where do parties stand on universal web access?
The Dancing Baby Video that Changed Copyright Law
Mom appealed and won eight-year court battle protecting internet freedom this week.
Fall Election Presents Three Internet Privacy Futures
Here's why Canadians should press candidates about warrantless data access.
VCC Ad Battle Ruling a Victory for Google
BC Supreme Court protects Vancouver Career College's ‘confusing' keyword ads.
Senate Reports Offer Insight into Future Tory Privacy, CBC Policies
While Duffy trial ruled the news, our upper house released several new documents.
How Canada Caved to US Pressure at TPP Talks in Hawaii
Negotiators dropped patent and copyright demands but failed to garner agreement.
Canada's Net Neutrality Enforcement Is Going at Half-Throttle
FOI docs reveal no penalties for uneven web providers.
'Netflix Tax' Hubbub Sidelines Weightier Digital Issues
With TPP and C-51, no shortage of questions not easily answered in a tweet.
Three Tough Digital Issues to Press Candidates On
What's their C-51 stance? Are they pro TPP? Good thing it's a long campaign.
Telecom Giants Lose Appeal to Shut Out Broadband Competition
CRTC decision lets upstarts like TekSavvy plug-in to cross-Canada networks.
Agriculture Issues Just the Tip of the TPP Iceberg
Trade deal could slam Canadians with rising consumer, health care and education costs.
The Never-Ending Story of Uber
We've heard it before: internet upstart challenges power. Will consumers win?
No, They Didn't Fix Telcoms Giving Gov't Your Private Info
Four ways Canada's new transparency rules fall short.
Quebec Is Getting Ready to Block Websites It Doesn't Like
Province's plan gambles with the open Internet.
How the Budget Bill Quietly Reshapes Canadian Privacy Law
Fast-tracked omnibus bill raises constitutional issues.
Hey, Bell! Quit Smearing VPN Users
Canadians watching US Netflix via private network aren't 'stealing.'
Canadians Have Reason to Be Wary of TPP Trade Deal
Details of the biggest negotiations on the planet still shrouded in secrecy.
Latest Privacy Revelations Show It's Up to Canadians to Protect Themselves
The most important self-help step? Get into encryption.
Why Is Canada So Slow to Provide Affordable Web Access?
A near million Canadians are still offline, as broadband policy lags.
C'mon, Regulator: Telecom Giants Still Hold the Wireless Power
CRTC could do far more to address Canada's competitiveness problem.
Behind the Recording Industry's Campaign to Squeeze Out New Competitors
Major labels lobbied to block music start-ups from paying artists.
Canada's Off-Key, Expensive Gift to Foreign Music Firms
Buried in federal budget is a multimillion-dollar boon to recording companies.
Cut or Keep Rolling on Unprofitable TV and Film Tax Credits?
Nova Scotia's decision to slash support sparks dramatic industry backlash.
Bell's Targeted Ad Scheme Shot Down by Privacy Chief
Commissioner rules that 'opt-out' approach does not adequately protect user privacy.
Anti-Terror Bill Review a Bad Show of Legislative Theatre
Critics largely ignored in favour of Obama birthers, anti-immigration groups.
Watch Out, Serial Spammers!
Canadian crackdown on spam messages begins, with action taken against three businesses.
Pick-and-Pay TV to Keep Big Broadcasters in Check
CRTC decision includes safeguards against potential anti-competitive conduct.
How Bill C-51 Eviscerates Privacy Protection
And why virtually everyone in Canada's privacy community opposes it.
Mounties Stonewalled Request for Improperly Collected Data
Audit yielded trove of inaccurate information, memo says.
Sun News Burned by Changing Broadcasting Climate
No longer shielded by government, channels can now spark and flame out.
Bell's Targeted Ad Scheme Falls Short on Privacy
Telecom has far more extensive access to customer data than web companies.
Privacy Protection Just Got Tougher
Oversight won't fix anti-terrorism bill or growing internet surveillance.
Could You Get Dinged for Streaming Video?
Canadian law frowns on downloading, but online streams have their own rules.
Beware of Loophole In New Copyright Law
Conservatives have 'duty to protect the public:' NDP industry critic Peggy Nash.
Canada Needs a Reboot. Four, in Fact
New year offers these key chances to hit reset buttons on digital policies.
The Year in Tech Law and Digital Scandals, from A to Z
An alphabet of names and moments that made headlines in 2014.
New Year, New Rules for Internet Downloaders
Coming copyright laws could result in a torrent of user infringement notices.
Telecoms Offer to Build Surveillance Tools into Networks
Nevertheless, gov't still feels the need to legislate interception, docs show.
Why Canada's Comms Policy Misses the Forest for the Trees
Wireless services, broadband, broadcast TV... why not regulate them together?
What Canada's 'Open Government' Hides
A truly open plan would release all the info to which the public is entitled, not only what the feds want us to see.
Uber's Got a Privacy Problem
Car service reportedly coined the term 'God View' for its ability to follow users.
The End of Online Anonymity?
Ontario police and Conservative senator support mandatory identification reforms.
More Disturbing Questions about Warrantless Data Disclosures
Privacy office finds RCMP keeps poor records on requests for Canadians' personal info.
Why We Need to Resist Quick-Fix Anti-Terrorism Laws
Canada's past teaches knee-jerk responses rarely work.
Feds Back off Patent Reform, Thanks to Corporate Opposition
Plan to fight innovation-stifling 'patent trolls' chilled after private consultation with companies.
Harper Wants Two Classes of Free Speech
Political attack ads may be noxious, but copyright isn't the right tool to stop them.
How Much Do You Trust Canada's Wireless Giants?
The Big Three keep waving off new measures to foster greater competition.
CRTC vs. Netflix: Guess Who'll Win?
Threat of new regulation won't scare Internet giants into compliance.
Fed Web Snoops Don't Have Their Stories Straight
Gov't docs raise disturbing questions about demands for subscriber info.
Future of TV Hearing Turns into the Netflix Show
Does the service threaten Canadian content, as broadcasters say? Should it matter?
Future of TV Hearings: 'No Such Thing as Too Much Choice'
It all starts with streaming hockey games online.
Access to Medicines Stalls Anti-Counterfeiting Bill
US fearful that Canada's new laws would threaten intellectual property.
Courier Case Shows Limits to Canadian Privacy
Man arrested after package he received was found to contain drugs.
Leaked CETA Treaty: One Thing to Applaud
Massive, controversial EU-Canada deal manages to do copyright right.
Patent Complaint May Upend Canada's Biggest Trade Deal
NAFTA case hints how CETA's investor-state settlement scheme gouges taxpayers.
What the Recording Industry Isn't Saying About Streaming Royalties
A campaign to stir up anger over Canadian rates misses a few notes.
Supreme Court to Personal Data Plunderers: Get a Warrant!
Ruling strikes blow against warrantless disclosure of web and telecom subscriber info.
Why Now Is the CRTC's Make or Break Moment
Regulator's 'future of television' review holds potential for total overhaul.
Why the Secrecy on Canadian Trade Talks?
Because, as leaked documents show, there is something to hide.
Anti-Spam Law: Keep Calm and Get Consent
Why new email marketing rules are causing chaos in your inbox.
BC Wrestles Google over What Appears in Search Results
But how far should a region or country's jurisdiction go?
Canada Stalls on Global Copyright Treaty that Supports the Blind
In digital era, accessibility commitment a 'no-brainer.'
Is Your Data Safe in Canada?
Two changes to the proposed Digital Privacy Act would bring data breach law in step with other nations.
The Canadian Government Has Given Up on Protecting Your Privacy
Its response to widespread surveillance fears? A legislative 'meh.'
In Spite of Cuts, CBC Should Take Risks
An open-source Netflix competitor? How CBC could revolutionize Canadian broadcast.
Is 'The Right to Be Forgotten' Ruling a Good Thing?
As people flock to remove Google search content, remember the downsides.
Canada Veers off Internet Slow Lane
While Americans debate a two-tiered net, Canadians dodged the latest neutrality battle.
A Makeover for Canadian Broadcasting
After decades of industry shifts, regulators are reaching for the reset button.
Feds Massively Changing Trademark Law with No Debate
Overhaul buried in budget implementation bill. Unconstitutional?
New Law Will Keep Personal Data Sharing out of Court
A law meant to stop online piracy may give companies the power to share subscriber information in secret, without a warrant.
Canada's Digital Strategy Lacks Actual Strategy
While there's plenty to brag about, newly-minted Digital Canada 150 report misses the big picture.
Without a Warrant, Companies Hand over Data
Web and phone records disclosed to gov't tens of thousands of times a year with no oversight.
US Still Controls the Web, and Won't Give it Up
Don't be fooled by news it will relinquish control over domain names.
From Lawless Cyberspace to an Internet 'Magna Carta'
The web we want is in reach, but only if we govern it right.
Don't Put Your Trust in the Cloud
If Canada's government can't muster faith in US cloud computing, why should you?
The Future of Television in Canada? More Fees
That is, according to the CRTC's vision. Is it time for regulator to get out of the picture?
Scared by a Downloading Lawsuit? It Might Be a Troll
And Canadian court just made it harder for unnecessary copyright suits to launch.
Budget Tech Goodies: Wider Web Access, Bitcoin Rules, and More
Several new digital policies found in latest budget.
Canadian Netflix About to Get Pricier?
Desperate to compete, CanCon producers demand new regulation of Internet giants.
Debate Over: Canada's Wireless Market Is Uncompetitive
Big Telecoms enjoy too much market power, competition bureau finds.
Telecoms, Tell Us Where Our Data Goes
Canadian companies remain secretive about what is shared with law, intelligence agencies.
Internet Providers Push for Two-Tier Internet Based on Data Caps
Guard your wallet as spectre of metered usage rises from the dead.
Ruling Shows Closer Eye Needed on Canada's Spy Agencies
Judge finds CSIS, CSEC misled court in order to obtain surveillance warrants.
Tech Triggers: 14 Questions in Need of Answers
In a wireless, webbed Canada in media flux, some 2014 issues bound to affect you.
This Was the Year of Snowden and Wireless Warring
The ABCs of tech law and policy for 2013, and how they affect you.
Canada Unprepared for 21st Century TV
Broadcasters still beholden to US programming due to 40-year-old policy.
Feds Finally Ready to Can Internet Spam
How a new law will give Canadians greater control over their inboxes.
Canada Devolves into an E-Government Dinosaur
No efforts to streamline or lower costs of online services since 2005, finds auditor general.
Web Snooping Laws Return Under the Cover of Cyber-Bullying
Spiked after a privacy uproar in 2012, they resurface in new bill.
Leaked Pacific Trade Treaty Shows Countries Had Plenty to Hide
Text reveals threats to Canadian web access, expansive border seizures and pricier health care.
New Risks Emerge as Anti-Counterfeiting Bill Fast Tracked
Lobbyists push to amend safeguards designed to limit wrongful seizures.
Pricy Wireless Shuts out Poorer Canadians
Stats show just one-quarter of lower-income residents use the wireless web.
Is Bell's Plan to Monitor and Profile Millions of Canadians Legal?
Privacy commissioner launches an investigation to find out.
Open Access to Canada's Research Nears Tipping Point
Shift reflects the notion that taxpayer-supported findings should be free for the public.
The Great Canadian Personal Data Grab
Companies like RBC, Aeroplan use aggressive new tactics to understand customer habits.
Feds Enlist ISPs in Cybercrime Fight
New service provider code of conduct would spur a more proactive front against malicious software.
Shouldn't Digital Access to Our History Be Free?
Contract to bring 60 million Canadian docs online includes potential paywall, exclusivity rights.
How Canada Can Put Digital Consumers First
Speech from the throne offers a chance to set things right, starting with wireless pricing.
Canada Helped US Crack Open Encrypted Data: Reports
Officials may have aided NSA effort to create a 'backdoor' to protected info.
Hint of an End to Roaming Fee Madness?
Regulator asks wireless companies to reveal more about how they profit from your out-of-town cell use.
New Rules Ease Campus Copyright Costs
Students, profs will have access to more material under 'fair use' guidelines.
The Privacy Question Canada Ignores
Rogers, Bell customers are subject to U.S. surveillance, but regulators keep to the sidelines.
Is Your Private Data Lost in the Cloud?
US surveillance revelations highlight risks of and regulation questions about storing info online.
Canada's Move Toward Total Broadcast Overhaul
Is there hope for Sun News Network? Regulator's ruling hints at a new path.
Breaking Through Canada's Wireless Static
Foreign competition wouldn't mean a 'bloodbath' as telecom giants claim, but better rates for consumers.
Should the Serial Spying US Government Run the Web?
With NSA revelations, who will the global Internet community trust to lead them?
James Moore, Digital Hero?
New industry minister has a shot at creating a competitive, privacy-respecting, less spammy Canada.
A 'Miracle in Marrekesh' for Visually Impaired Readers
Canada leads landmark treaty that improves access to copyrighted electronic works.
A North America with No Roaming Charges
It's possible, as Canada and US inch towards a shared communications market.
Eight Canadian Digital Wins
From squashing surveillance laws to net neutrality, several triumphs dot the policy landscape.
Will Tories Can Their Own Anti-Spam Law?
Long-awaited regulations still mired in delays and government dithering.
Canadian Laws Can't Handle Modern Snooping Tech
Why today's legal protections are too puny to protect your privacy.
Copyright Stymies Access to Digital Works for Visually Impaired
And a UN treaty to fix that could be undermined by lobbyists.
Can Canada's Wireless Industry Be Rescued?
New caps on cell phone contracts are a win, but competition still lags.
Why Can't Canada Innovate?
Failure to invest in research and development is breeding an economic crisis.
Trade Talks? Only Business Insiders Invited
Everyone else excluded by two-tier status secretly established by feds.
Broadcasters Must 'Compete Like Any Other Sector'
That's the new theme from CRTC chair Blais. Is he serious?
Behind the Big Canadian Wireless Breakup
Divided over competitiveness, industry's association falls apart.
When Digital Small Print Flashes on Your Screen
Are you liable? Quebec court says no to Ebay's online contract.
Why'd the Feds Push to Ratify Four Treaties Without Debate?
Government makes up support for provisions found in two major proposed trade deals.
Sorry, Canadian Wireless Users Are Still Suckers
It's no time to declare victory in fight for wireless competition.
What's Fake about Canada's Anti-Counterfeiting Bill
Bill C-56 seems natural to support on surface but hides dangerous measures.
Shelving Bill C-30 Didn't Save Your Privacy
Internet surveillance law is dead but not Canada's telecom transparency gap.
You Have the Right to Google a Lawyer
When in custody, now you are entitled to much more than one phone call.
All Out Blitz by Pro-Spamming Lobby
Business groups wage extraordinary campaign to keep clogging your inbox.
New Wireless Rip-off Safeguards Too Weak
Canada still lags; CRTC should be bolder with consumer protection code.
Why You May Soon Pay for TV You Don't Want
CRTC to consider new rules that could make 'niche channels' mandatory.
Honouring Aaron Swartz, Internet Activist
Digital rights advocate's death places spotlight on more open access to info.
Spam Clogging Your Inbox? Thank the Tories
Harper gov't caves to lobbying pressure by watering down anti-spam law.
Online? You May Be Subject to US Laws
Courts adopt aggressive approach in cross-border Internet jurisdiction cases.
Twelve Ways 2013 Likely to Be Big Digital Year
Key monthly moments ahead for tech law and policy, via my crystal ball.
Letters of The Law: The Year In Tech Law and Policy
An alphabet of key moments for digitial media in 2012.
Six Steps to a Digital Economy Strategy
Harper's gov't promised to create one but never did. So here's a tax-free gift.
TPP: Another Flawed, Hush Hush Trade Deal
Secrecy the standard as Canada enters Pacific treaty talks.
Mass File Sharing Lawsuits Could be Coming
Lucky for you, downloaders, there are caps on the damages you're liable to pay.
Telecoms Push to Treat Web Like Phone Service
At UN meeting, companies to discuss controversial changes to how we pay for the Internet.
Supreme Court to Big Pharma: 'No Games'
Viagra judgment serves stunning reminder of the patent 'bargain.'
What the New Copyright Law Means For You
Good news: a range of user-oriented provisions legalizing common activities.
Thank a Geek for Stronger Digital Policy in Canada
While gains remain to be made, rising public interest in web regulation should be celebrated.
Do You Forfeit Computer Privacy Rights at Work?
A little, but not completely, shows a recent top court ruling.
You Decide How Wireless Companies Should Behave
With consumer-oriented shift, CRTC invites public to create telecom code of conduct.
Internet's About to Go Dot Crazy
Digital poobahs are poised to approve hundreds of new dot-whatevers. But a fight is brewing.
Tell Us Which Websites Improperly Share Private Info
One in four top sites leak personal data. Expose the culprits, privacy commissioner.
Push for Tough Copyright Reforms in Secretive Trade Deal
Lobby wants Canada to crackdown on infringers as part of TPP.
New Era of Open Access to Public Funded Research
While world makes ambitious plans for next decade, Canada lags behind.
CRTC Chooses Access over CanCon Rules
The days of emphasizing Canadian content are over, as commission reveals new priorities.
Canada's Digital Strategy Feels Like a Seinfeld Episode
Time to put some substance into the Harper government's 'Penske File.'
Want to Reverse Canada's Media Oligopoly?
How to work against media convergence if the Bell-Astral mega-deal is approved.
Toews Exit Could Allow Internet Surveillance Bill Restart
Likely Public Safety shuffle offers chance to correct Tory government's big blunder.
Billions at Stake if Canada Caves on Drug Patent Demands
Gov't quiet on Europe's reform push in trade talks.
Competition Bureau Ready to Take on Media Convergence?
Bell Media, one of four media giants dominating Canada, has huge designs on Quebec.
Harper's Website: A Cookie Caper
PMO website's privacy policy may incorrectly state how your visits are tracked.
Goodbye $300 Million for Local Programs, Hello New CRTC
Era of feds charging Big Media to pay for diversity experiments appears over.
Top Court Shakes Foundations of Canadian Copyright
Five rulings, relevant to gamers and educators, aim to balance user and creator rights.
Europe's Copyright Drama Muddies Trade Deal
Documents reveal plans to weave unpopular intellectual property treaty provisions into CETA.
All the News That's Fit to Link
Federal Court ruling clarifies legal risk around sharing information online.
Shell Game: Why Canada's in Trans Pacific Partnership Talks
It's more about changing farm sector regs here than opening up markets.
The Domain Name 'Gold Rush'
How staking out extensions like dot-NFL and dot-Gucci might foster web innovation.
What Rumours of a UN Internet Takeover Suggest
Challenge to US domain dominance shows need to retool web governance.
Social Media Privacy Fears Are Legit, Let's Act
Massively grabbing data on you and me, social media firms fail to self-regulate. Four action items.
End of Copyright Debate Sparks Many 'What Ifs?'
Bill C-11 likely to pass soon, but questions about what got left out linger.
Big Telecoms Glad to Play Big Brother
How Canada's telecom companies secretly supported Internet surveillance legislation.
The Future of Education Is Here...
It's just not evenly distributed. Canada needs to wake up to competition.
Is There a Better Way to Spend $750 Million?
Media merger payouts are huge. Are we putting them to the best use?
Web Domain Agency to Public: We Don't Trust You
Planned changes to board election process of Canada's dot-ca registrar weakens members' role.
Students Get Stuck with Bill
Why AUCC signed the priciest copyright insurance policy in Canadian history.
Feds' Quiet Cut to Community Web Access Program
Omitted from the budget, a 17-year initiative providing Internet to the disadvantaged gets unplugged.
Should You Be Forced To Pay for TV Channels You Don't Want?
Case allows broadcasters to keep resisting giving consumers real choice.
Internet Voting Under Siege
Cyberattack at NDP leadership convention highlights risks of web balloting.
Flaherty's Budget: What's In It for Tech?
Direction of Canada's digital future will be written in the fine print.
Feds' Lost Opportunity on Telecom Policy
Newly-announced 'go-safe' approach misses a chance to shake up the market.
Copyright Bill Hits the Home Stretch
New site blocking powers? iPod tax? Various lobbying fronts make their final appeals to government.
Game Over for Canadian Sports Gambling Site
How US Internet 'superjurisdiction' led to the shut down of Bodog.com.
Lawful Access Signals Canada Is Open to 'Big Brother Inc.'
Bill could trigger massive web rehaul to enhance surveillance, encourage sale of spy tech to gov't.
How the CRTC Helped Stifle Internet Throttling
Hear hear, commission, for standing up to bully telecoms in defense of net neutrality.
Could SOPA Pervade Canadian Copyright Law?
Media industry lobbyists push for Bill C-11 to increasingly resemble besieged US net piracy bill.
On Auction: Chance to Boost Digital Canada
Industry Minister to reveal terms of selling off highly valuable spectrum in near future.
The Day the Internet Fought Back
Digital blackout protest clearly upset SOPA laws, but don't cry victory just yet.
What's in a Domain Name?
A surprising link between new web address extensions and the future of Internet rule.
Are Canada's Digital Laws Unconstitutional?
Why a recent Supreme Court decision may spur challenges to e-privacy laws.
The Year Ahead in Tech Law and Policy
Using my latest crystal ball app, here's what I see happening in 2012.
The Year in Tech Law, from A to Z
'Twas a lively 12 months of copyright battles, CRTC controversies, and lawful access debates.
The Lawful Access Deception
Feds say bill requiring ISPs to release customer info will help fight web crime. Others cry foul.
Big Week for Copyright at Supreme Court
Canada's top court to review five 'highly contested' copyright concerns in coming days.
In Global Digital Economy, Canada Lags
Compared to peers, our digital policy is about as advanced as dial-up. Why not upgrade?
Indie Net Providers Win Freedom to Compete
Major ISPs can't slam smaller providers with usage-based price scheme, rules CRTC.
Your Website Under American Rule?
Proposed, 'aggressive' US laws to halt web piracy could affect Canadian sites, too.
How Serious Are Feds About Net Neutrality?
Complaints mount against Canada's big ISPs, testing resolve of enforcers.
Supreme Court of Canada Stands Up for the Internet
In ruling on defamation risk when hyperlinking, judges favour free speech.
Is the Feds' Open Initiative Now Closed?
Officials tout value of open government, but Canada's data and info website has been virtually abandoned.
CRTC's Online Video Report Leaves You Out
Consumers' persectives ignored as regulator wrings hands on behalf of broadcasters.
New Copyright Bill Keeps Flawed Digital Lock Rules
Why? Mainly to satisfying US pressure, not Canadian public opinion.
Peering Closely at Tories' Online Spying Wishes
Public debate on lawful access misses real dangers to what Conservatives want.
Download Wrong Film, You Might Owe $20,000
Why lawsuit against 'Hurt Locker' file sharers could hurt everyone.
Parties Take Note: Digital Policy Is a Provincial Issue
Yet so far digital issues are largely missing from Ontario's election campaign.
Wikileaks Show Canadian Officials Caving to US Pressure
Former minister offered to violate secrecy, leak copyright bill draft in advance.
Transition to Digital TV Offers Huge Opportunities
But will Canadians miss them? And more questions as switchover deadline arrives.
Telecom Giants Lure Tory Ex-Ministers to Boardrooms
Why Bell pulled in Jim Prentice and Telus nabbed Stockwell Day.
New Rules for Web Domain Disputes
It worked for mentos.ca. Now, more ways to fight for your trademarked site.
Secret Identities Online and Defamation
Ontario court grapples with legalities of anonymous postings on the Net.
On Campus, Last Chapter for the Print Coursepack?
Canadian universities switch to tech savvy online alternatives.
Myth of the Clogged Internet
CRTC right to be wary of Big Telecom claims about congestion on the net.
Net Neutrality: A Failure to Enforce
Two years after CRTC's high profile hearings, the worst predictions have proven true.
Canada's Broadcast Laws Are Broken
Regulators don't seem to understand the key to fixing the system: competition.
CRTC Faces Charges of Bias
Regulator makes it hard for consumer groups to weigh in on issues related to online video.
Is Internet Access a Human Right?
A UN report says so, and Canada looks better than many other countries.
Minister from Abbotsford Holds Key to Health Care Costs
Ed Fast, Canada's new minister of trade, has a hot file on generic drugs.
To Do Memos for the New Ministers
'Mandate letters' the PM should send his cabinet members in the digital era.
Can Canadian Broadcasters Compete with Free?
No-charge streaming over the Net threatens satellite and cable TV models.
Web Surveillance Laws Require Study, Not Speed
Proposed, unvetted 'lawful access' bills raise red flags for privacy.
Harper's New Power to Make Digital Policy
Tory majority gives Ottawa a crack at breaking the tech-law logjam.
Apple and Sony Privacy Woes Point to Legal Holes
Millions of Canadians awaken to risks from undisclosed tracking and security breaches.
Parties Compete with Digital Policy Surprises
Tories focus on security. Grits on culture and connectivity. NDP would ban usage-based billing.
Why Don't Tories Like RIM's PlayBook?
Conservatives' copyright plans create hidden cost for Research in Motion's new tablet.
Streamed Broadcasting Will Make New Winners
You don't have to love college basketball to see the Net is opening new channels, profit possibilities.
How to Vote for the Internet
This is your chance to ask candidates about key digital issues. Here are ten.
Everything You Know About Pirates Is Wrong
Few copyright pirates are gangsters. The market, not the law, is to blame, says report.
Internet Governance Battle Heats Up
Who makes new 'dots' as US threatens independence of non-profit that creates domains?
Time to Let Foreigners Own Broadcasters?
Think Canadian owners assure protection of our culture? Think again.
US Gets Serious About Making College Free, Online
$2 billion in funding for open education materials is a game changer.
The Biggest Issue for Canadian Digital Policy
It's the so far obscure question of how to use the 700 MHz band. Five questions, actually.
Music Pirates Hardly Safe Here
Canadian recording industry files massive lawsuit against file swapping site, proving our laws are tough.
Fixing Canada's Uncompetitive Internet
Doing that will take more than a CRTC reversal on net metering.
When Media Giants Merge, What's the Worry?
US regulators fret about competition a lot more than our CRTC. Check the BCE-CTVglobemedia hearings.
Privacy Superhero Reveals Her Plan
Commissioner Jennifer Stoddart lays out her get strong, get tough agenda.
Canada's Digital Library a Grassroots Effort
Feds passing up chance to preserve, share nation's cultural heritage.
The Year in Tech Law and Policy
An alphabet of historic moments for Canada's digital world during 2010.
Idea #2: Higher Ed Reaches the Tech Tipping Point
No longer will technology be treated as just a complement, rather than replacement, for traditional educational materials.
Shaw's Big Switcheroo
First the cable giant fought Net regulation. Now it wants more. What changed? Its business plan.
Wikileaks' Mobile Home
Shifting from one cloud provider to another is a breeze, as we saw when Amazon booted Wikileaks.
Six Key Answers to Copyright Bill Questions
Separating facts from fiction ahead of government hearings on Bill C-32.
New Big Brother Laws Would Reshape Canada's Internet
Three bills would mandate new spyware to scoop your info with no court oversight, and broaden police powers to snoop.
Canada, Lost Land of Wireless Giants
Big three carriers still control the scene, which means higher prices and limited choice for consumers.
The Generational Privacy Divide
Younger people online are more willing to share info. Must they give up safeguards?
The Big Split in Canada's Book Industry
A wide divide over foreign ownership, and how feds deal with new digital reality.
Malcolm Gladwell's Wrong about Digital Advocacy
Social media's 'weak ties' should not be underestimated.
Change the Digital Locks: Tory Law Is Too Tight
Counterfeiting treaty conclusion leaves flexibility for made-in-Canada approach.
Canada's Cold Climate for Netflix's Cousins
Three reasons why US Net services are slow to migrate north.
'The Great Firewall of America'
That's what some call the US attempt to use domain names to regulate the Net.
Bell's CTV Buy Based on Failed Strategy
As is Shaw's Canwest purchase. Both bet on building 'walled gardens' that haven't worked.
Millions at Stake in Education Copyright Battle
Teachers and students are pushing back against rising fees for course packs.
Prying Loose the Grip of Broadband Giants
Three key competition concerns driving CRTC Internet provider policy.
Conrad Black Case Targets Net Defamation Standards
Courts ponder where it's right to try suits, given Web is global.
Big Win for Copyright Collectives
But court ruling also shows copyright fair dealing fears greatly exaggerated.
Did You Know There's a Telecom Complaints Czar?
Most don't. Yet phone and cable companies want its power cut.
Americans Now Digitally Freer than You
US permission to pick digital locks on DVDs, smartphones, e-books leaves Canadians locked out.
Protecting Pizza, Port and Parma™
Parma ham, by any other name, would smell sweet to EU trade negotiators
Court Whacks Plan to Boost Canadian Content on Web
Federal ruling deals blow to funding by taxing Internet providers.
Get Used to Geo-Blocking Online
The digital marketplace rewards businesses who do it, and don't expect politicians to change that.
Developing Nations Oppose Anti-Counterfeiting Pact
India, China, Brazil place Canada between a rock and the United States.
Unlocked iPhones Could Herald True Mobility
Finally, in July, you can buy one and not be tied to a specific wireless carrier.
Six Ways to Open up Canada's Digital Economy Strategy
It means opened government, academia, investment and more.
Mr. Clement, Loosen Those Digital Locks!
Canada's long-awaited copyright reform plan is flawed but fixable.
Internet Ad Words, a Rough Game
BC Court backs Vancouver Career College's aggressive buying of ad keywords.
Warning! Hackers Got Your Info!
You'd want to know. But new bill won't make hacked firms announce when they've failed to protect your data.
Sneak Peek at Canada's New Copyright Bill
Digital locks will make it hard to copy your CDs and DVDs. And what about snooping Internet providers?
Canada Needs a Digital Hero
The feds have finally made the digital economy a priority, but we need real leadership to overcome a decade of policy neglect.
Canada, Piracy Haven? Arrrgh
Keelhaul those lobbyists saying we're soft on copyright infringement! It's not true.
CRTC Stomps on the Music
Regulator won't let audience decide if Quebec needs a new TV music station. Emerging artists lose.
Your Privacy Ends at the Border
But the Google Buzz slam by 10 governments may signal a new day of global privacy protection.
Harper's Closed Windows
Most federal departments fail to provide transparency, but open data sites offer hope.
Secret Copyright Treaty Talks Spring a Leak
A leaked draft of the anti-counterfeiting agreement confirms fears about what it could mean for Internet freedom.
US Car Insurer Could Bring down Canada's Privacy Law
Court will decide if spied-on customer can demand info from State Farm.
Canada's Bizarre New Broadcast Policy
CRTC defends 'industry to detriment of consumers who remain powerless': dissenting commissioner.
Amazon, Friend to Canadian Authors?
Online bookseller restrictions are about limiting competition, not enhancing culture.
Why Voting by Internet Is a Bad Idea
It seems like a boon to democracy, until you examine the dangers.
Ottawa's New Chance to Join the 21st Century
Parliamentary restart offers opportunity to prioritize digital agenda.
Tech Giants Defend Canadian Copyright Law
Biggies like Microsoft and Google are fine with it, but not US government.
Net Throttling Hasn't Stopped
Canadian Internet service providers fall short on net neutrality rules, testing CRTC's patience.
Way to Open up, NFB!
The National Film Board's super-accessible Screening Room hosted 3.7 million film views in its first year.
Global Deal Might Let Officials Unplug Your Internet
Secret summit to focus on how to punish suspected copyright violators, even if proof is lacking.
Dinosaurs Laughed at Facebook Revolt
Critics misjudged the power of digital advocacy as anti-proroguing backlash grew.
C'mon Canada, Open Up!
Compared to US and others, our government drags its feet on open data initiatives.
Canadian Recording Biz Faces $6 Billion Suit
Late jazz great Chet Baker at centre of massive copyright infringement case.
The Right Way to Fight Child Porn?
Legislative proposals signal new policing requirements for Internet providers.
What the Broadcasters Really Want
It's not just about adding new cable fees to help their profits. They also want to block US signals.
Who Gets to Own a Telecom Firm in Canada?
Upstart Wind Mobile wants to compete with the Big Three. But foreign investment rules might stop it. Is that old-fashioned?
Canada's Most Secret Treaty
Why don't they want us to know about the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement?
Those TV Ads Where TV Companies Bash TV Companies
What's that about? Welcome to the 'fee for carriage' fight, and how to solve it.
Did Net Neutrality Just Die in Canada?
Some people are reading the CRTC report that way. Not so fast.
Canadian Universities Closed Minded on Open Access
It seems a no-brainer. Let the public see the research they pay for.
'Do Not Call' (Unless You're a Huge Corporation)
Thousands complain about telemarketing by wireless and banking giants, but CRTC is toothless.
Spammers Have Lobbyists! And They Might Win!
Who knew? In Ottawa, the anti-spam bill is down to the wire.
Why .ca Stands for Failure
Agency that oversees Canada's country code has shirked its public mission.
Privacy Law, Canada's Latest Export
Facebook ruling will affect 250 million users, but there's more.
Digitizing Our Heritage: Why Leave It to Google?
Did someone hit delete on Canada's digital national library?
You Wanted It, Tony Clement Killed It
How telco lobbyists stopped a tool to help you save cell phone money.
Where's Canada among Wireless Leaders?
An OECD report says we are expensive. But we have other hurdles, too.
Will Copyright Bill Be Obsolete on Arrival?
Designing one to last is Minister Clement's core concern.
Legal Smackdown: Bell, Rogers Fight over Net Speed
Titans square off in court over Internet service provider claims.
Bad Chapter for the Kindle E-Book Reader
Amazon reached into some people's devices and erased books.
Testimony Exposes How Firms 'Throttle' the Net
Four ways Ottawa might regulate the controversial practice.
Battle for Digital Democracy Moves to the Hill
At hearings, big telecom, cable firms fight creator, consumer groups.
Less Private, More Neutral, Low Spam
This is the future of the Canadian Internet if a trio of recent events are any indication.
Is Canada Really the Illegal File Sharing Frontier?
And why that Wild West myth deserves some vigilante justice.
War on Spam: Victory Is Within Our Grasp
At last, Ottawa is primed to pass a law with serious teeth.
A Chance to Open up Canada's Wireless Market
Digital TV transition clears the way to 'WiFi on steroids.'
Canada's Dumb Scrap with China
US bullied us into an ill-founded trade complaint. Now we look silly.
No Stopping Canadian Telemarketers
CRTC: Your call for a 'Do-not-call' registry is important to us, really.
