Joe C. Dwek, CPA
Chartered Accountant

1. Introduction

Joe C. Dwek CPA ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of all personal information collected from clients, prospective clients, and visitors to our website. This Privacy Policy details our practices regarding the collection, use, disclosure, and protection of personal information in accordance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and other applicable privacy laws in Ontario, Canada. By using our website or engaging with our professional services, individuals acknowledge and consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of their personal information in accordance with this policy.

2. Collection of Personal Information

Personal information is collected in order to facilitate the provision of professional accounting, tax, and advisory services, as well as to manage client relationships and business operations. Information that may be collected includes, but is not limited to, identifying details such as full name, mailing address, email address, and telephone number. Additionally, financial data, including income details, tax filings, banking information, and corporate financial records, may be gathered where necessary for service provision. Technical information, such as IP addresses, browser types, operating systems, and browsing activity on our website, may also be automatically collected through the use of cookies, Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, LinkedIn Pixel, and other tracking technologies.

3. Methods of Information Collection

Personal information is obtained through direct interactions such as client intake forms, service agreements, and consultation requests. It may also be collected through electronic communications, including emails and website inquiries, as well as through secure document submission portals. Additionally, automated tracking technologies, including cookies and third-party analytics services, are utilized to gather relevant technical and behavioral data from website visitors.

4. Purpose and Use of Collected Information

The collection and use of personal information serve multiple purposes, including the provision of professional accounting, tax preparation, and financial advisory services. Such information is also used to facilitate communication with clients regarding appointments, inquiries, and regulatory updates. Compliance with legal and regulatory obligations, such as tax laws and professional accounting standards, necessitates the collection and retention of certain personal and financial details. Furthermore, personal information is used to enhance internal business operations, website functionality, and overall client experience. Marketing and informational updates, including newsletters and professional insights, may be distributed to individuals who have provided consent to receive such communications. Additionally, website analytics and performance tracking are conducted through third-party tools such as Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, and LinkedIn Pixel to improve user experience and evaluate the effectiveness of digital marketing strategies.

5. Disclosure of Personal Information

Personal information is never sold or traded. However, in the course of business, it may be disclosed to third-party service providers, such as cloud storage providers, tax software providers, and marketing analytics platforms, all of whom are subject to strict confidentiality obligations. Disclosure may also be required to legal or regulatory authorities in response to court orders, subpoenas, or other legal requirements. In the event of a merger, acquisition, or business restructuring, personal information may be transferred to an acquiring entity, provided that confidentiality obligations remain in effect.

6. Use of Cookies, Tracking Pixels, and Analytics

Cookies, tracking pixels, and third-party analytics tools are employed to enhance the website experience, analyze user behavior, and measure the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. Cookies are small data files stored on users’ devices to improve website performance and facilitate personalized experiences. Google Analytics is used to collect anonymized data on website traffic, visitor interactions, and user demographics, while Facebook Pixel and LinkedIn Pixel track user activity for targeted advertising and marketing optimization. Individuals who wish to manage their privacy preferences may adjust their browser settings to limit or disable cookie tracking. Additionally, users can opt out of targeted advertising through their respective Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn account settings.

7. Data Retention and Security

Personal information is retained only for the duration necessary to fulfill business and regulatory obligations. Once such information is no longer required, it is securely disposed of or anonymized in accordance with best practices. Security measures, including encryption, secure document storage, and restricted access protocols, are implemented to protect personal information from unauthorized access, loss, or disclosure. However, while reasonable safeguards are in place, no method of data transmission over the internet is entirely secure, and individuals acknowledge the inherent risks associated with electronic communications.

8. Client Rights and Choices

Individuals have the right to request access to, or correction of, the personal information held about them. Additionally, individuals may withdraw consent for marketing communications and opt out of data tracking where applicable. In the event of concerns regarding the handling of personal information, individuals may file a complaint with the relevant regulatory authority. Requests and inquiries related to personal information rights may be directed to our contact details provided below.

9. Third-Party Websites and External Links

For informational purposes, our website may contain links to third-party websites. These external websites operate independently, and we do not assume responsibility for their privacy policies or practices. Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of such third-party websites before engaging with them.

10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy may be revised periodically to reflect changes in legal requirements, business operations, or technological advancements. The most current version will be made available on our website, and individuals are encouraged to review this policy periodically to remain informed of any updates.

11. Contact Information

For any inquiries regarding this Privacy Policy or the handling of personal information, individuals may contact us at:

Joe C. Dwek CPA
Email: joedwek@dwek.ca