Watchdog says CSIS may have misused powers during intelligence gathering

Canada’s spy watchdog says the Canadian Security Intelligence Service may not have fully complied with the law while using special powers to gather information in 2022 and 2023. The National Security and Intelligence Review Agency found that some CSIS employees may have committed offences without the required designation, and that some actions may have been directed without the proper authorization. The report also said the agency sometimes failed to document why those actions were considered reasonable and proportional. The review recommends stronger internal guidance, oversight and quality checks to help ensure CSIS follows the rules set out in the CSIS Act. CSIS said it takes the findings seriously and will consider the recommended changes.