The Government of Canada and Ontario made the new COVID Alert contact management app available for download from the Apple and Google Play app stores. The app, which is available now, lets users know if they may have been exposed to the virus.

According to the Government of Ontario, the COVID Alert app uses Bluetooth technology to detect when users are near each other. If a user tests positive for COVID-19, they can choose to let other users know without sharing any personal information. Users who then receive an exposure alert can get tested and take action to help keep themselves, their families, and their friends from spreading COVID-19 throughout the community. According to the Government of Ontario, the app does not collect personal information or health data, and does not know or track the location, name, address, or contacts of any user.

An app user who tests positive for COVID-19 can notify other app users by entering their one-time key from Ontario’s test results website into the app. A message will then be sent to other app users who have been within two metres of them for at least 15 minutes within the past 14 days, without sending any information that identifies the user, or the time and place of exposure.

All aspects of COVID Alert are completely voluntary.

The COVID Alert app is available for download here.

We will continue to update our clients with information as soon as it becomes available. If you have any questions about this topic, other COVID-19 related questions, or would like assistance with developing and/or reviewing pandemic plans, please do not hesitate to contact a Mathews Dinsdale lawyer, or refer to the Firm’s COVID-19 website resources.