IAB Canada was thrilled to participate in the IAPP’s 25th Anniversary Conference this week in Toronto. As Canada faces rising global competition, fast-moving AI innovation, and increasing privacy risks, public and private sector leaders are being called to respond with practical, forward-looking solutions.
Here are some key insights that we discussed from this week:
1. Data Sovereignty vs. Data Residency
One takeaway from the IAPP discussions was the growing recognition that storing data in Canada doesn’t guarantee legal control — particularly when that data is managed by U.S.-based companies. The distinction between residency and sovereignty is increasingly important, especially in sensitive sectors like healthcare. For IAB Canada, this underscores the need for clear, practical frameworks that support both innovation and national oversight.
2. AI Governance and Responsible Use
As AI regulation evolves, organizations are being encouraged to establish internal policies based on context, risk, and accountability. Speakers highlighted the importance of understanding who is using AI, for what purpose, and under what safeguards. Tools like
sandboxes, validation protocols, and explainability are key — as is ensuring ongoing human oversight. For the advertising industry, building trust in AI use will be foundational.
3. Hidden Privacy Risks in Web Services
Several sessions explored how third-party tools embedded in websites can silently collect and transfer sensitive user data — sometimes across borders and without proper user awareness. This reinforces the importance of transparency and due diligence in the supply chain, particularly for digital media and marketing.
4. Age Assurance & Online Safety for Youth
The conversation around age assurance is shifting toward thoughtful, flexible solutions. There’s growing support — including from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner — for approaches that leverage AI for age estimation, prioritize privacy, and avoid blunt restrictions that could limit access to beneficial content.
IAB Canada was proud to participate in an informative panel discussion alongside Vance Lockton (OPC) and Michelle Gordon (Privacy Lawyer) moderated by Susie Hendrie (Privacy/Data Consultancy Founder) where we reiterated our support for continued industry consultation and the use of existing technologies to balance safety, privacy, and openness online.
To lead in the responsible use of AI and unlock its full potential, Canada must invest in robust infrastructure, modern legal frameworks, and collaborative policy approaches. Staying competitive on the global stage requires balancing innovation with strong privacy protections – guided by smart investments and a commitment to transparency, trust, and the rights of all Canadians.
IAB Canada continues to monitor these rapidly evolving issues to ensure that the digital advertising industry remains informed, prepared, and positioned for success. As conversations around data sovereignty, AI governance, and youth online safety shape Canada’s digital future, our members benefit from timely insights, expert analysis, and opportunities to engage with policymakers and industry leaders. Join IAB Canada today to stay ahead of the curve and contribute to building a responsible, competitive, and privacy-conscious digital economy in Canada.