Calgary police officers are no longer required to disclose their names.

In an effort to enhance the safety of its officers and reduce the risk of "doxing"—the malicious public disclosure of private information—the Calgary Police Service has enacted a policy change as part of a 12-month pilot program.

Under the new guidelines, officers are "encouraged" but not mandated to disclose their names when interacting with the public. Instead, they will primarily wear their regimental badge numbers, particularly in the Calgary police public safety unit and the downtown street engagement team, where exposure to protests raises concerns about potential doxing. According to the Calgary Police Service (CPS), if asked for a name, officers may choose to provide it based on the situation.

The regimental number is deemed crucial, as it is unique to each officer and allows the public to file complaints or inquiries regarding specific interactions. Doug King, a criminal justice professor at Mount Royal University, expressed that while the initiative aims to enhance safety, it might compromise transparency.

He noted that the implications of this change could be challenged in court. The CPS emphasizes that doxing can have severe repercussions for both officers and their families, as access to personal information can help individuals locate officers' residences and details about their loved ones. King pointed out the potential erosion of transparency within the police force, though he acknowledged the rationale behind prioritizing officer safety. He also questioned public perception regarding this policy shift. Kelly Sundberg, an MRU criminologist and former Canadian Border Service Agency officer, voiced understanding for the police's decision given the rising frequency of doxing incidents. He highlighted the risks officers face, not only to themselves but also to their family members. Consultations regarding the policy change included feedback from diversity and youth advisory boards within the CPS. The pilot program will be assessed to evaluate the need for further alterations. Earlier this year, the CPS also restricted media access to police radio communications, opting for the encrypted messaging app Signal to relay pertinent information—a move that limits media awareness of police activities. King noted that the trend of officers speaking directly to the media has decreased over the past decade, with information increasingly disseminated via social media to manage the narrative more effectively. While recognizing that these changes may serve valid purposes, King warned that they could lead to perceptions of reduced transparency within the Calgary Police Service, a principle he sees as vital to community policing.
 **By Steven Wilhelm**