Canada's Parliament introduced Bill C-22, the Lawful Access Act, 2026, expanding police powers to search and examine computer data without traditional warrant requirements. The legislation modifies the Criminal Code to allow judges or justices to issue warrants for searching computer systems anywhere in Canada, removing previous geographic limitations and public officer naming requirements.

Key provisions include authorization for public officers to use or cause the use of any computer system at a search location to examine data, seize computer data for examination, and compel individuals in control of premises to permit these actions. The bill creates specific definitions for computer data and computer system, establishing clear legal frameworks for digital evidence collection.

New warrant provisions allow examination of seized computer data if there are reasonable grounds to believe it will provide evidence of an offense. The legislation also addresses exceptions to warrant notification requirements and allows extensions up to three years for certain notification periods. These changes represent a significant expansion of digital surveillance capabilities under Canadian law, potentially affecting privacy rights and law enforcement procedures nationwide.