How much video surveillance is too much, asks privacy commissioner

A new set of guidelines released by the province's information and privacy commissioner has Ed Ring wondering just how much video surveillance is considered too much.

Ring said the guidelines apply to public bodies and spaces only, but he says the basic questions are universal.

He told CBC that even though more surveillance cameras are being installed at public buildings and in public spaces, there have been no complaints — and that worries him.

"To me, that says I have no concerns because I have nothing to hide," he said. 

"So, basically you're surrendering your privacy rights because you're not someone in contravention of the law in any way, shape or form. I think there's a bit of complacency out there."

Ring said when video surveillance first came on stream, security was the primary concern.

His new guidelines fall in step with growing concerns of invasion of privacy, as surveillance technology becomes more sophisticated and its application more widespread. 

"The first basic question you have to ask is, 'Why do I need video surveillance?' Are there any other less intrusive means that could be employed," he said.

Ring said since his new guidelines were released, he's received a number of calls from public bodies wanting to ensure their surveillance systems are in line with the new standards.

He said while there might be no complaints now, he's predicting they will start to flow in as video surveillance continues to expand.