THE National Privacy Commission (NPC) called software developers to be transparent on how they use personal data new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) -related apps, digital tools and solutions in this time of pandemic.
“The the app must not over-collect personal information from users and collect only what is necessary for the purpose,” said Raymund Liboro, privacy commissioner.
The pandemic has led to the development of various digital tools such as health and COVID-19 case trackers as part of the solution to combat the disease.
Liboro also said these digital tools should be geared not only towards its rapid deployment but also in ensuring that the widest segment of the population with their devices can avail of these apps and that data quality is achieved.
“To be effective, such solutions must be trustworthy and acceptable for individual users to use with confidence so that users will share information without fear of misuse or discrimination,” Liboro added.
Liboro noted the need to emphasize to users the legitimate purpose of such tools from the app’s design, functionalities, personal data collection and extent of processing.
To minimize reach-related privacy risks, Liboro said collected and generated personal data must be disposed or discarded in a secure manner to prevent any further use.
“Considering the inherent vulnerability of personal data processing over the internet and in anticipation of the latest cyber threats, personal information controllers must also ensure that appropriate security measures are identified and implemented,” Liboro added.
