Can an Ontario collection agency use email as it's first means of contact and in that email disclose detailed personal information?

NO!! It is illegal to commuincate with a debtor regarding their debt via email due to privacy laws. The first form of contact MUST be a letter sent within 5 days of the company landing the account, then they must wait 1 week before they start calling you. They can only contact you 3 times within a week. Unless you have agreed with them otherwise. They are not allowed to skiptrace and contact family and friends once they have gotten in touch with you unless your phone has been disconnected or you have moved.