New Self-Registration Tool via the C-OPN Website

In response to the C-OPN Web App data breach incident that occurred on March 23, 2022 (read more here), C-OPN has launched a new self-registration tool. This self-registration tool will be maintained in accordance with strict security and privacy controls. Anyone interested in becoming a C-OPN participant can use this self-registration tool to give their contact information to their local C-OPN Site Coordinator.

This self-registration tool was developed using REDCap, the same data storage technology used to store all C-OPN data. This REDCap database is hosted on a secure server belonging to the highest level of data security standardization by the University of Calgary (classification level 4). The following security controls have been implemented as part of this platform:

• Strict user management
• Password strength controls
• Multi-factor authentication
• Role-based access
• Client-server communication encryption
• Virtual and logical separation of data, application, and configuration control
• Daily data backups
• Server and network security
• Network monitoring

In addition, the C-OPN Coordination Team has implemented the following protocols for greater protection of data collected through the self-registration tool:

• Collection of less information and, in particular, less sensitive information
• Monthly emptying of the database

The entire C-OPN team takes data security very seriously, and we will strive to do everything in our power to prevent the possibility of any future incidents. The involvement of participants in scientific research is crucial to the advancement of discoveries in medicine. We thank everyone for their participation in and support of C-OPN.

If you would like to become a C-OPN participant, check out the Participant page or self-register here.