In introducing stricter rules that govern the collection of NRIC data, Singapore's privacy watchdog has set the record straight - that NRIC numbers are valuable, and misuse, including making copies of the identity card, can result in a fine that goes up to $1 million.
Making this clear in its statement yesterday announcing the enhanced rules, the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) also highlighted the risk of indirect harm: "In today's digital economy, indiscriminate collection or negligent handling of NRIC numbers can increase the risk of unintended disclosure and may result in NRIC numbers being used for illegal activities such as identity theft or fraud."
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