Licensees are reminded of their obligation and requirement to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of client information. 

A licensee must hold in strict confidence all information acquired in the course of the professional relationship concerning the personal and business affairs of a client, and must not divulge or use any such information other than for the purpose of that transaction or of a similar subsequent transaction between the licensee and the same client unless expressly authorized by the client or as required by law to do so. 

The Insurance Council of B.C. Client Confidentiality Guidelines describes licensee responsibility to hold in strict confidence all information acquired in the course of the professional relationship concerning the personal and business affairs of a client, and must not divulge or use any such information other than for the purpose of that transaction or of a similar subsequent transaction between the licensee and the same client unless expressly authorized by the client or as required by law to do so. 
 
Licensees have a duty to safeguard all client personal information that is in their possession, and they are responsible for determining the appropriate safeguards that address the collection, use, disclosure, storage, and destruction of any client’s personal information. Licensees are required to have written policies and procedures governing client privacy and take reasonable steps to ensure that all staff are aware of these policies and act accordingly. It is also the responsibility of insurance agencies and their nominees to ensure their licensees and employees understand the confidentiality requirements and that appropriate measures and safeguards are in place to protect personal information.
 
All licensees are encouraged to review the Insurance Council of BC Guidelines and Reminder Notice Reminder Of Licensee Responsibilities Related To Disclosure Or Transfer Of Client Information as these documents provides guidance on the matters of disclosure or transfer of client information, the requirements involved, requirements when selling, acquiring or transferring a book of business and considerations for dealing with orphan clients.
 
This information serves as general sound business practices to licensees in all provinces.  The Insurance Council’s position and requirements on client privacy and confidentiality do not override the requirements under existing provincial legislation.