Urgent action needed to protect privacy amid easy access to full NRIC numbers.
Concerns about data breaches and privacy loss persist after government agencies acknowledged and apologized for the confusion regarding the National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) numbers. Since December 9, 2024, the Bizfile search function was updated to display full NRIC numbers, sparking fears of identity theft.
Public Outcry Over NRIC Accessibility
The revision in policy has raised alarms among Singaporeans, many of whom still perceive NRIC numbers as highly sensitive information. Despite the government’s argument that this change is based on sound reasoning, citizens are concerned that making these full numbers publicly available increases the risk of scams and fraud.
Historical Context and Existing Safeguards
Since September 2019, organizations have been restricted from collecting, using, or disclosing NRIC numbers unless legally mandated. This restriction was intended to protect personal data, but the recent update to Bizfile has led to widespread criticism. It remains unclear how many individuals’ data have been accessed since the update, intensifying fears about potential misuse.
Need for Concrete Steps
Despite apologies from agencies, concrete steps to mitigate the risks associated with the public availability of NRIC numbers are sorely needed. The government is under pressure to ensure that these sensitive details are protected from misuse, with many urging faster implementation of safeguards to address the rising concerns about data security.
