The Information Regulator of South Africa recently issued a press release about the importance of the right of access to information and the right to privacy in the management and containment of the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The Regulator commends government for the measures taken thus far to deal with the virus and calls on government to intensify and streamline the proactive disclosure of all information relating to the virus. The press release also urges health and testing centres to ensure that the personal information of everyone who has been tested and/or treated is protected in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
The press release highlights that COVID-19 has increased the use of digital technologies such as online shopping, banking and even telemedicine in order to minimise social contact. These online platforms are vulnerable to data breaches and cybercrime, accordingly the Regulator has called on both public and private bodies to increase their security measures around their digital and physical operating systems so as to protect the personal information of everyone against unlawful or unauthorised access.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has also warned that institutions need to address COVID-19 related financial crime risks by remaining vigilant. The FATF warns that criminals are taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic to carry out financial fraud and exploitation scams, including advertising and trafficking in counterfeit medicines, offering fraudulent investment opportunities, and engaging in phishing schemes that prey on virus-related fears. Malicious or fraudulent cybercrimes, fundraising for fake charities, and various medical scams targeting innocent victims are likely to increase, with criminals attempting to profit from the pandemic by exploiting people in urgent need of care and the goodwill of the general public and spreading misinformation about COVID-19.
In light of the above, FSPs are urged to take extra measures to protect the information of their clients given the increase in digital or electronic communications. Ensure that networks used are secure and be careful before clicking on risky website links which may lure you into disclosing personal information which might end up with cyber criminals. FSPs should also remain vigilant to emerging money laundering and terrorist financing risks and ensure that they continue to effectively mitigate these risks and are able to detect and report suspicious activity.
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