(Published in its print edition on August 31 – September 6, 2024)
SOCIAL media netizens abound but they do not think of the consequences of hitting the upload or share button especially when they post personal information and files publicly.
Due to this situation, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is laudable for constantly reminding netizens not to post their personal social media accounts on national ID or PhilID.
It has been a common practice among villagers to publicly display their identification cards in a display of proudness or for any reason.
Yes, the contention of PSA Director-General and Civil Registrar-General Dennis Mapa that the personal details of individuals will be compromised when the national identification cards are posted at the social media is correct.
As of this time, at least 81,005,872 Filipinos have registered in the national government’s PhilSys.
The PSA harps that the PhilSys journey is one of dedication and determination is reaching 81 million registrants is a reflection of our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all Filipinos.
The biggest danger here is they will fall victims to identity theft and their records will be used for cybercrimes.
There is a need to verify the details of the purported allowable and legal users and to ensure that they are authorized to get the information before giving any data.
So, think twice before hitting that button again.#