Advocates raise privacy concerns over TransLink's smart card system

VANCOUVER — Saying the new Compass Card system raises several concerns about the privacy of its more than 550,000 users, privacy advocates are urging Metro Vancouver TransLink riders to carry cash if they want to travel under the radar, The Province reports.

Transit Police have the ability to track a rider’s past 10 “taps” using hand-held units (HHU) to check if cards are stolen, expired, have a valid tap-in and contain a valid fare, however, the HHUs don’t show police a rider’s personal information, such as their name, address or credit card number, TransLink officials say.

Privacy advocates contend, though, that they are concerned with how the users’ history may be used. For the full story, click here.