Victoria Privacy Commissioner Helen Versey is warning that citizens' privacy must be taken into consideration as power companies implement smart meters across the state, reports the Herald Sun. "Smart meters have the potential to impact severely upon the privacy of individuals," Versey said in comments submitted to the Essential Services Commission. They "collect detailed usage data in an area which is usually 'off-limits'--a person's home." All Victorian households will be outfitted with smart meters by the end of 2013, according to the report. The meters will collect electricity usage data for utility companies. Versey says smart meter regulations should ensure that the collection and sharing of such data is kept to a minimum.
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