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Privacy and Security
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Frequently asked questions about Access Key

What is an Access Key? Do I need one?

An Access Key is a secure User ID and password that identifies you, and ensures that messages or documents that you send to the Government online are not altered. You need an Access Key to:

• submit applications to the CRTC
• send information to any Government service that requires Access Key security

You can use one Access Key for different services and departments, or you can have several different Access Keys. Your Access Key won't expire if you use it at least once a year.

What is an electronic signature?

When you're sending files electronically, it's not feasible for you to sign documents with your signature in your handwriting. So, your Access Key User ID and password act as your electronic signature.

How do I get an Access Key?

To get an Access Key you need to:

• request a CRTC activation code which you will use once, the first time you log in to Access Key
• register for Access Key

1. To request a CRTC activation code, call the CRTC Monday to Friday (except holidays) from 07:00 to 19:00, Eastern Time at:

• 1-866-893-0932 or
• TTY (toll free) 1-877-909-2782

You'll receive an activation code. If this is the first contact you've had with CRTC, you'll be asked to provide certain identifying information (such as name, address, etc.) in order to receive an activation code.

If you don't use your activation code within 14 days, it expires, and you'll need to get a new one.

2. To register for Access Key, go to Access Key service website.

Follow the instructions to register. You’re then returned to the CRTC website.

3. Enter the activation code you received in Step 1.

How secure is Access Key information?

All registration information that you provide is protected under the federal Privacy Act.

To safeguard security:

• do not share your registration information
• do not share your User ID and password with anyone - even family members
• memorize your password instead of writing it down
• ensure that your password is meaningful to you but meaningless to others

To maximize security:

• do not use your name for your User ID
• do not use personal numbers like birthdays or anniversaries, partial telephone numbers, family names or names of pets
• change your password every 3 to 6 months
• do not leave your computer unattended once you have logged in
• close your browser after you complete a session

What if I forget my User ID or Password?

Go to the Access Key website to manage your Access Key.

How do I change my User ID or password?

Go to the Access Key website to manage your Access Key.

How do I revoke my Access Key?

If you don't think you need Acces Key any more, or if you suspect that someone knows your User ID and password, you can revoke your Access Key. Go to the Access Key website to manage your Access Key.

When you revoke your Access Key, you won't have access to any Access Key services, including those of the CRTC. If you still need to send applications to the CRTC or do any other secure transmissions, you'll need to get a new Access Key. Click on How do I get an Access key? for more information.

Do I need Access Key for secure access to the Data Collection System?

If you participated in the data collection process recently, you already have Access Key. Your User ID and password are valid for up to one year from the last time they were used. If you've forgotten your User ID or password, it has been more than one year since you accessed the Data Collection System (DCS) or you do not have a User ID and password, you'll need to get a new Access Key.

1. Use the DCS Contact form to provide your name, title, company, telephone number, postal address and email address. Once we have reviewed this information, you will be issued an activation code.

If you don't use your activation code within 14 days, it expires, and you'll need to get a new one.

2. To register for Access Key, go to the Access Key website, then select Register.

Follow the instructions to:

• create a User ID
• select Recovery questions and answers; these help to verify your identity in case you forget your password
• create a password
• electronically sign the Access key Terms and Conditions of Use

You're then returned to the CRTC page.

3. Enter the activation code you received in Step 1. You need to activate Access Key in order to participate in the data collection process using the DCS.