A security guard working for a private security company in Surrey, BC, observes an individual repeatedly loitering and acting suspiciously near a client's property. The guard takes a photograph of the individual's face for identification purposes, without their consent, to share with the client as part of a security report. Under PIPA BC, what is the most likely legal standing of this action?

Question: A security guard working for a private security company in Surrey, BC, observes an individual repeatedly loitering and acting suspiciously near a client's property. The guard takes a photograph of the individual's face for identification purposes, without their consent, to share with the client as part of a security report. Under PIPA BC, what is the most likely legal standing of this action?

Answer options: ✅ Permissible if it is for the safety or security of people or property and consent is impractical.

• Permissible only with explicit written consent from the individual.
• Prohibited, as it is an unauthorized collection of personal information.
• Permissible if the individual is on private property and being observed by a security guard.

Correct answer: Permissible if it is for the safety or security of people or property and consent is impractical.

Explanation: Under PIPA BC, organizations may collect and use personal information without consent if doing so is for the purpose of protecting the safety of a person or a group of people, or protecting property, and it is unreasonable or impractical to obtain consent. Taking a photograph of a suspicious individual for security reporting falls under this provision.