When you think of privacy, the internet likely isn’t what comes to mind. From websites tracking your browsing activities and spending habits to willingly sharing information about oneself through social media, the internet is a space for sharing and exchanging information of all kinds. Though there can be benefits to the lack of privacy the internet brings, such as the sharing of entertainment and educational resources. Many people have valid concerns over how their data is used online. Though some people express feeling like their devices are listening to them, they may not be aware that the ways in which they use the internet are also kept by their service provider.
At POYNT360, we are the high-speed internet provider Ontario residents depend on when looking for internet packages that suit their usage needs and budget. We are occasionally asked by customers about how internet history is kept and for how long. Though all internet service providers keep customers’ histories, not all customers are aware that this takes place. In this post, we outline what you should know about the storage of customer information to help you feel informed about your privacy online.
Why Do Internet Providers Keep Usage History?
If you’ve ever wondered, can internet providers see history of online use, they certainly can, and they can also keep it too. Though it’s natural for many people to feel some level of distrust towards corporations, internet service providers don’t keep usage history for no reason. In fact, the practice of keeping data is required by Canadian data retention legislation. There are many reasons why keeping data is required by law though the storage of data is mainly justified in relation to the enforcement of other laws, including copyright infringement.
You should also know that internet providers may use your data and sell it to those who may wish to advertise to you. If keeping on top of how your data is used is important to you, you do have options to help you protect your privacy. The use of VPNs or privacy tools can help to protect your data online. You can’t necessarily protect all your usage information online, though through using tools, you may be able to protect the information that matters most to you.
How Long Is Internet History Kept in Canada?
Many people wonder, how long do internet providers keep history in Canada? Though internet service providers are required to keep some usage information by law, they aren’t required to hold on to that information forever. Generally speaking, information must be kept for six months, though some user agreements may specify that data is kept for longer periods of time. To determine how long your high-speed internet provider keeps your data, it is best to seek the information from your provider directly, as company policies can differ.
At POYNT360, we understand that you may have questions about how your information is collected and used. That’s why we are always here to answer your questions about residential high-speed internet, satellite TV, and home phone services. Connect with us today to learn more about how we can help you find a high-speed internet solution that is best suited to your needs.
