The recent Bell Sympatico user agreement change that says they can monitor communications and pass on to the government continues to attract attention. It has focused attention on upcoming “lawful access” legislation that is expected to increase government spying powers on the Internet.

Both Michael Geist and David Fraser point to a You Tube video called “Emily of the State” that has a parody of an avatar following your every move. Its worth a look.

Add to that stories about a Hong Kong government initiative to enlist Boy Scouts to troll the Net for copyright violations and report it to the government. Truly strange.

Look at the video

Read a NY Times article about the Hong Kong issue

See Michael’s post

See David’s post

Bill C-74, the Modernization of Investigative Techniques Act has been introduced by the Canadian Government.

The intention is to give law enforcement easier access to modern means of communication.

Critics are concerned for several reasons, including the costs ISP will need to spend to accomodate this, the lack of judicial pre-authorization, and privacy in general.

Perhaps the good news is that there is a good chance that this bill, and the controversial bill C-60 copyright bill, won’t get passed before the election that seems to be looming.

Michael Geist has a post with links to the government’s view, and his criticism of the bill.

Read Michael Geist’s comments

Read a timeline and series of articles on itbusiness.ca

“Lawful access” refers to proposed legislation that would give police increased powers for electronic surveillance.

Government says it is necessary as a result of changing technology and risks. Critics see it as an intrusion into ordinary people’s lives that is not warranted.

David Fraser’s Canadian Privacy Law blog has a reference and links to a CBC Radio discussion on the topic.

Read David’s post

Read an earlier article of mine