CanadaCan the government collect information about me from sources other than directly from me?
Yes, the Canadian government can collect personal information about you from sources other than directly from you — but only if it relates directly to an operating program or activity.
What the Law Says
Canada’s Privacy Act sets strict limits on how federal government institutions may collect and use your personal information — including information gathered from third parties (e.g., other government departments, banks, or employers).
Section 4 of the Privacy Act says that no personal information may be collected by a federal government institution unless it relates directly to one of its operating programs or activities. This means even if the information comes from a source other than you — like another agency or a private organization — it must still be necessary and relevant to the institution’s official work.
Section 7 adds that once collected, personal information under the control of a government institution cannot be used for any purpose other than the one for which it was originally obtained — unless you give your consent or another legal exception applies.
Statutory TextNo personal information shall be collected by a government institution unless it relates directly to an operating program or activity.
— Privacy Act, s. 4 — Collection of personal information
Statutory TextPersonal information under the control of a government institution shall not be used without consent except for the purpose for which it was obtained.
— Privacy Act, s. 7 — Use of personal information
What to Do
Check the institution’s published Personal Information Bank (PIB) to see what info they collect and from where.
Request access to your personal information using a formal Privacy Act request.
Object in writing if you believe information was collected or used unlawfully.
File a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada if unresolved.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.