08 Nov New Singapore Privacy Rules Prohibit Collection of NRIC Numbers
Earlier this week, Singapore’s privacy watchdog stated in a public consultation paper that the indiscriminate collection and use of an individual’s National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) number increases the likelihood of it being used in activities such as identity fraud.
The NRIC number is a permanent and unique identifier which can be used to reveal more personal data on an individual. These numbers are often scanned and used by mall operators for lucky draws, or cinema operators for booking references. However, with the new rule, operators are now advised to just use the customer’s name, email, or mobile number.
The NRIC number can now only be collected without the owner’s consent if the law requires it. This include activities such as seeking medical attention at a hospital, or subscribing to a phone line.
Source: Straits Times
