John Forster, head of the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSE), was speaking at a technology conference in Ottawa, after Brazilian TV station Globo said on Sunday that the agency carried out industrial espionage against Brazil's government.
The report was based on documents leaked by former US intelligence contractor Edward Snowden.
"I can tell you that we do not target Canadians at home or abroad in our foreign intelligence activities, nor do we target anyone in Canada.
"In fact, it's prohibited by law. Protecting the privacy of Canadians is our most important principle," he said.
He noted the uproar in the media over the CSE's mandated foreign signals intelligence activities.
But he added: "Because of the classified nature of our work, I am sure you can appreciate that I can't say much.
"Everything that CSE does in terms of foreign intelligence follows Canadian law."
Globo cited leaked documents showing a detailed outline of the Brazilian ministry's communications including phone calls, email and Internet traffic.
Snowden, a 30-year-old former NSA contractor who has sought refuge in Russia, is wanted by the United States after revealing details of the agency's massive snooping activities.
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Tuesday said he was "very, very concerned" about the allegations, but said an independent commissioner oversees the CSE's activities to ensure compliance with Canadian laws.
Source: AFP
For more than two decades, I-Net Bridge has been one of South Africa’s preferred electronic providers of innovative solutions, data of the highest calibre, reliable platforms and excellent supporting systems. Our products include workstations, web applications and data feeds packaged with in-depth news and powerful analytical tools empowering clients to make meaningful decisions.
We pride ourselves on our wide variety of in-house skills, encompassing multiple platforms and applications. These skills enable us to not only function as a first class facility, but also design, implement and support all our client needs at a level that confirms I-Net Bridge a leader in its field.
Go to: http://www.inet.co.za
