The RCMP has unveiled a new plan to create covert online profiles to monitor “extremist” groups in Canada. The initiative, which was exposed in an internal document released via an Access to Information request, highlights the RCMP’s intent to improve its digital undercover operations as part of a broader strategy to address ideologically motivated violent extremism (IMVE).
This development aligns with recommendations made in a 2022 review, which urged the RCMP to expand its online intelligence-gathering abilities. The police agency argues that creating these personas will allow investigators to better identify and track potential threats in the digital landscape before they escalate.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) plans to conduct undercover investigations online by creating fake profiles to identify ideological extremists within Canada. pic.twitter.com/V7TS6UiVs1
— YEGWAVE (@yegwave) November 4, 2024
What constitutes an ideological extremist? 😂
— Drake Cruz (@DrakeCruz83) November 4, 2024
However, the strategy has drawn considerable criticism from privacy rights advocates and civil liberty defenders. Canada’s privacy commissioner has expressed concern over the potential for these covert operations to infringe on Canadians’ rights. Legal experts argue that without judicial oversight, this move could blur the line between surveillance and entrapment, leading to possible abuse of power.
Ezra Levant of Rebel News voiced his objections, arguing that the RCMP’s surveillance program might target law-abiding citizens who oppose certain government policies. Levant contends that this initiative could sideline real crime-fighting in favor of monitoring political critics, including conservative activists and those involved in the trucker protests.
Better be for the Islamic extremists conducting organized crime here and not grandma & grandpa on Facebook saying they don’t like what’s happening to their country. 😐
— Robin Lee McIntosh (@flatEarther319) November 5, 2024
The RCMP’s report also reveals that additional resources will be needed to sustain this digital monitoring program, with specialized technology and personnel listed as necessary components. While supporters argue that these measures are crucial to counter online threats, critics question the legitimacy of focusing on ideological surveillance over tangible security concerns.
It wont be Khalistani extremists, it will be everyday conservatives. I will bet money on that.#TrudeauDestroyingCanada
— Dr_CaptPatriot (@I_am_mr_patriot) November 5, 2024
As the program proceeds, debate over its implications for privacy, government accountability and public trust in law enforcement is likely to intensify. Canadians remain divided on whether this approach enhances security or threatens their civil liberties.
