If you’re concerned about the kids or grandkids surfing the Net in the next room, you have good reason to be cautious. Cyberbullying is a sad reality faced by too many young Canadians across the country.  It can destroy the lives of its victims and their families.  
But online criminal activity doesn’t only hurt young Canadians; it affects adults as well.

That’s why the Government of Canada is pleased that the Protecting Canadians from Online Crime Act has now become law.

The legislation is helping to ensure Canadians are better protected from online criminal activity, including the protection of young Canadians from the dangers of cyberbullying.  The new law gives police the tools they need to investigate crime in today’s high-tech environment, while at the same time protecting Canadians’ privacy.

It is now an offence to share an intimate image without the consent of the person in the image.  This includes when the photo is taken unwillingly, or without the person in the photo even realising it.  The new law also empowers the court to remove an intimate image from the Internet, and order forfeiture of the device used to commit the offence.

Meanwhile, the new law will also take a strong stand for victims. For too long, the justice system has been about protecting the rights of criminals, not the victims of crime.  Now, the courts will be empowered to provide for reimbursement to victims for costs incurred in removing intimate images from the Internet and elsewhere.

Our government has a strong record of protecting Canadians, especially children, from online criminal activity.  We increased the age of protection from 14 to 16 years, and strengthened measures to protect children from online sexual exploitation.  We’ve also taken a strong stand for victims to provide for a stronger voice in Canada’s criminal justice system by delivering our Victims’ Bill of Rights.

Cyberbullying of anyone must be exposed. Encourage young people who may be bullied to talk about it with a trusted adult or call the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868. The service is both anonymous and confidential.  And anyone of any age who is a victim should contact the police if the bullying is serious. 

Through the Protecting Canadians from Online Crime Act, our government is proud to continue working to help keep Canadians, young and old, safe while online.

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