Ensure protection of individual's personal information

In this era of modern technology and neo-capitalism, information is not only the source of all power, in many cases it is more frightening than deadly weapons. Just as state secrets are crucial and sensitive, so too are personal secrets. If any personal information is disclosed without the knowledge of the individual, it not only causes embarrassment but can also endanger their very existence. National identity numbers, phone numbers, bank accounts or health-related information are strictly private and considered highly sensitive. These are inseparably linked to a person’s existence; yet in this age of online technology, personal information is at constant risk. This insecurity is a new reality.

Earlier, people feared only theft of money, land or property. Now a new terror haunts people – the theft of their identity, their personal information, their privacy. And if such data falls into the wrong hands, it can be used to commit fraud, forgery and even grave crimes. From bank transactions to opening fake online accounts – all of it becomes possible. Most alarming is that even elections are now subject to large-scale manipulation through such stolen data.

Against such a frightening backdrop, reports have emerged in Bangladesh that individuals’ private information is being sold for money. On Sunday (14 September) the media reported that national identity (NID) details and even bank balance information are available for a price. This trade is taking place via social media like Facebook, as well as dedicated websites and apps. By paying a specified amount through mobile banking, anyone’s personal information can be obtained. All that is needed is a mobile number and NID number.

According to reports, one such app is named ‘Shob Ekhane’. A website by the same name has also been identified. It is alleged that this syndicate provides 25 types of personal data through this app, including NID details and bank balances. Preliminary investigation suggests that members of law enforcement, bank staff and IT workers of various public and private institutions may be involved in this ring. Simply opening an account on the app provides access to the desired information. Registration requires an email and mobile number, and the account must be recharged through mobile banking.

The syndicate’s service charges are very low. Three months’ call list along with location data is available for only Tk 1,000. An NID number costs only Tk 110. Access to someone else’s SMS messages is sold for Tk 2,000. A bank account’s full details are available for Tk 300. Now think, how important these details are for an individual, and how devastating the damage can be if they are disclosed without their knowledge!

Any conscious citizen can realise how alarming this situation is. State institutions cannot avoid responsibility either, as such data is generally held under the supervision of government or semi-government agencies. If leaks occur from there, they too must bear the blame for failing to protect citizens’ security. Immediate and thorough investigation must be conducted, and the culprits – whoever they may be – must be brought under strict punishment. Leakage of personal data threatens not only individuals, but the entire state. At the same time, timely laws to ensure protection of personal information are urgently required.