Software updates, installations now require consent

Starting today, it's illegal in Canada for a website to automatically install software on your computer.

Your consent is now also required for updates to apps on your smartphone or tablet.

The latest provision of Canada's anti-spam law to come into effect specifies that businesses installing software or computer programs on another persons computer over the internet musthave their explicit consent "implied" consent is not enough. There are some exemptions to the requirement, includingbug fixes, operating systems cookies, HTML and Javascript.

Companies must also:

Clearly disclose to users if its software could collect personal information, interfere with the normal operation of a computer, alter settings or preferences or data on a computeror allow a third party to access a computer.Those who fail to complymay be fined up to $10 million.

• Canada's new anti-spam law: Can it really clean up your inbox?

Thelaw targetsmalware and spyware, but is controversial because it willalso affect those who make ordeal with legitimate software.

A previous part of the law targeting traditional email spam went into effect on July 1. Itrequires consent in order to send messages to customers via email, social media or instant messaging.

The messages must identify the sender, be truthfuland allow the customer to unsubscribe.

• Anti-spam legislation means headaches for small businesses