Canada’s Privacy Commissioner begins probe into breach of student data.

February 11, 2025 TruthUSA

The federal privacy watchdog has initiated a formal investigation into a cybersecurity breach involving a student information system used nationwide in Canada.

Privacy commissioner Philippe Dufresne revealed that the investigation stemmed from a breach report submitted by U.S.-based PowerSchool, the provider of the compromised software, as well as a complaint regarding the incident.

PowerSchool informed educational institutions in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Alberta, and other regions in North America about a data breach that occurred between December 22 and 28.

Last month, the Toronto District School Board disclosed that students’ addresses, health card numbers, emergency contacts, and certain medical details may have been compromised in the data breach.

Dufresne stated that his primary focus is ensuring that PowerSchool is implementing measures to minimize the risks for those affected by the breach and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The company is currently notifying impacted Canadians and offering them credit monitoring and identity protection services.