Now is the time of year when we would normally gather in person for the annual IAPP P.S.R. conference. Seeing as how that is impossible because of the pandemic, the IAPP has done what I think is a superb job at providing excellent learning opportunities using their virtual platform.

Here’s the page where they’ve compiled what’s available to you (if you’re an IAPP member). There’s plenty there to occupy you. This past week, I checked out the session on geolocation privacy issues, and I also plan to tackle the one about third-party cookies. 

I was also invited to sit in on a webinar in which we discussed a number of privacy topics, including (and this is what I thought was the most interesting) what the heck is going on in California. The law and policymakers in that state are not letting this pandemic slow them down in advancing things. First, the California Consumer Privacy Act, which was passed only a short time ago, continues to undergo changes at a dizzying pace. Moreover, the entire thing might already get replaced with a new law if it law receives a favorable showing in an upcoming referendum.

All this in just one state. It’s scary to think about what might happen in the U.S. if dozens of states start playing this game. You’ll need a Ph.D. just to stay on top of everything.

And, if you are inclined to keep track, you might be interested in the IAPP-published (already in the fourth edition) book by Lothar Determann entitled simply “California Privacy Law.” Or, if you want the Cole’s notes version, tune in on LinkedIn live later today to hear from Lothar directly.

With all the changes happening in privacy around the world, it just feels inevitable that something will happen in Canada sooner rather than later. Last week, I wrote about the Ontario consultation on the possibility of having its own private sector privacy law. This week, the Information and Privacy Commissioner for Ontario publicly released its submission. Let’s just say its submission is a bit lengthier and more in-depth than my little rant last week. So, if after you learn a bit about what’s happening in California, you want to get up to speed on all things Ontario, I suggest pouring that cup of coffee and begin by reading the story we have on it below.

Have a great weekend everyone, and be safe.