RCMP To Monitor Online ‘Extremists’ Using Covert Profiles, Sparking Privacy Concerns

The RCMP has outlined plans to create covert online profiles to target “extremists” in Canada, according to an internal document released following an Access to Information request. The strategy is designed to help the RCMP tackle ideologically motivated violent extremism (IMVE), which officials say is essential in the digital era.

The RCMP’s report reveals that “backstopping personas” and covert accounts will be used to support national security investigations. These initiatives were initially recommended in the 2022 Operational Improvement Review, which called for stronger digital surveillance to prevent potential attacks.

However, this surveillance strategy has raised questions among privacy advocates. The Canadian privacy commissioner has expressed concerns, stating that this kind of covert surveillance, especially without judicial oversight, could infringe on the privacy rights of Canadians. Civil liberties organizations argue that the program could encourage entrapment and unnecessary monitoring of individuals exercising their freedom of expression.

Rebel News publisher Ezra Levant criticized the plan, suggesting it might unfairly target conservatives, such as those opposing gender ideology and supporting parental rights.

Levant argues that instead of focusing on known violent offenders, the RCMP might direct its efforts toward ideological opponents of the government.

The RCMP notes that scaling up the program will require extensive resources, including technology and online aliases. Proponents believe this initiative will bolster security, but critics continue to press for transparency and judicial checks on the RCMP’s surveillance methods.

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