The Office of the Privacy Commissioner says consent is key to TradeMe firearms licence checks.

The Commissioner, John Edwards, has received a number of enquiries expressing concern about the process for trading firearms on the online auction site.

TradeMe will be verifying firearm licence details with police for every firearm transaction on the site. This process is based on consent of all concerned and as such, raises no concerns under the Privacy Act.

Mr Edwards says traders will be able to see in detail what happens with their personal information, should they wish to trade firearms on the platform. If they are uncomfortable with any aspect, they are free to use other methods to buy or sell firearms.

This FAQ document responds to some of the misconceptions that have been brought to the Commissioner’s attention.