Finnish regulator defends login requirement for environmental documents

The Finnish Permit and Supervision Authority (LVV) has responded to a complaint filed with the Chancellor of Justice over its online service requiring strong authentication for access to certain environmental documents.

An official within the LVV itself submitted the complaint, questioning the legality of the practice. The service in question hosts environmental permit applications, decisions, and related attachments, with some documents accessible only after users log in and state their intended use. Those without credentials may request the documents by email.

In its response to the Chancellor of Justice, the LVV maintains that its procedures for disclosing documents and decisions under environmental protection and water laws are lawful. The authority argues that the complaint’s claims do not warrant immediate action.

The LVV states that the login requirement ensures users understand their responsibility regarding personal data in the documents and do not misuse them. It insists all documents remain accessible to the public.

The authority acknowledges that the definition and application of personal data in different contexts remain partly unclear but says it is prepared to adjust its practices if legal interpretations are refined.

“Our goal is to leverage the possibilities of digital services and offer smooth customer service, while of course complying with various legal requirements,” said Tommi Muilu, Director-General of the LVV’s environmental department, in a statement.

The LVV also assures that any personal data collected through logins is processed in accordance with the law.