Back to Bizweek
SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER
Latest News

We all leave a digital footprint online, but we cannot always be certain how that data is being used” 

Dr. Avinash Ramtohul, Minister of Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation

In the context of Data Protection Day, Dr. Avinash Ramtohul, Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, highlighted the growing concerns surrounding data privacy and security. In his speech, he emphasized that every online interaction, from browsing and messaging to GPS usage, contributes to our digital footprint. While technology offers convenience, it also presents risks, as vast amounts of personal data are generated, stored, and potentially misused. And yet, many individuals remain unaware of how their data is collected and utilized. Dr. Ramtohul underscored the need for stronger data protection measures and greater awareness to ensure the security of personal information in an increasingly digital world.

Mauritius reaffirmed its commitment to data protection and cybersecurity during a workshop attended by some 300 Data Protection Officers (DPOs) in observance of Data Protection Day on January 28. Addressing the audience, the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Dr. Avinash Ramtohul, highlighted the role of DPOs and the need to strengthen their responsibilities beyond compliance.

Dr Ramtohul noted that data protection should not be treated as a mere compliance exercise. “In many cases, it has been treated as a mere checkbox exercise. But if you accept that approach, the moment a problem arises, all eyes will be on you to act. Without the necessary training, you won’t be able to meet expectations—and when that happens, you know the consequences, he said.

To address this, Dr. Ramtohul emphasized the need for continuous professional development. “We must also ensure the protection of our data protection officers. This training is crucial, and we encourage you to continue expanding your knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a data protection officer. Additionally, keep developing your credentials, capabilities, and competencies, he added.

The minister stated that Mauritius’ Data Protection Act aligns with GDPR requirements, adding that “as part of a globally interconnected world, we are subject to various regulations, including the GDPR, which applies beyond EU borders. This means that whenever you handle data related to European Union citizens, you must adhere to even stricter data protection requirements.

He said that additional provisions were being considered, and that upcoming amendments would further strengthen the legislation.” 

Dr. Ramtohul also highlighted concerns regarding cybersecurity threats: “Imagine it’s 3:45 on a Friday afternoon, and you receive an email from an operator demanding $1 million to unlock the password to your own database. What’s your first move? Clearly, this is a case of spyware and ransomware. In such a situation, how prepared are you to respond? This highlights the significant need for further training and preparedness among data protection officers. I think that in terms of training for data protection officers, there is a long way for us to go.

He went on to affirm the government’s commitment to cybersecurity: “Today marks the beginning of a strong commitment from the Data Protection Office, my office, and the government, to emphasize that we take this matter very seriously.

Dr. Ramtohul also addressed concerns regarding CCTV usage, stating that “we have discussed this with the Commissioner, and will enforce the laws rigorously. In Mauritius, photos and videos of individuals are considered personal data, and are therefore subject to the provisions of the Data Protection Act.”

“We are having, on almost a daily basis, complaints from young people on the way in which their data is being used, or their photographs are being published”

He also noted concerns regarding social media misuse, particularly through Telegram: “We are having, on almost a daily basis, complaints from young people on the way in which their data is being used, or their photographs are being published, and we take that very seriously. It doesn’t just stop at the Ministry of IT, it goes to the Ministry of Education, it goes to the Ministry of Family Welfare… Therefore, it’s actually a national problem which our children face today. And we have the duty of care to ensure that we provide to our children a safe environment.

Dr. Ramtohul went on to highlight the increase in data breaches globally: “It’s important to note that data breaches increased by 20% globally from 2022 to 2023, with the number of victims doubling in 2023 compared to the previous year. These figures reflect the global landscape of which we are a part. The fact that you haven’t heard much about such breaches doesn’t mean they haven’t occurred, nor does it mean they haven’t happened within our own environment.

The minister also provided statistics on complaints related to mobile security: “Since March 2018, approximately 20,000 complaints have been received via mobile, averaging about eight complaints per day. These figures only account for cases recorded through mobile reporting. We are now introducing updates to the mobile system to capture additional details, including the complainant’s age group, while ensuring their privacy is protected. The majority of these complaints relate to hacking and online harassment.

Dr. Ramtohul also discussed the increasing amount of data being generated: “The term ‘data explosion’ is no longer new. We are all aware of the vast amounts of data being generated every day. From your network connections and GPS signals to emails, messages, and social media activity, an enormous volume of data is constantly being produced. Each of us leaves a digital footprint across networks and online platforms. However, we cannot always be certain how that data is being used.

Addressing concerns about data privacy, he stated that the relevant authorities “observed concerns, leading up to November 10th, regarding how data was being used. We want to assure you that this government remains fully committed to protecting your data and privacy. We take this responsibility very seriously, and will not compromise on it.

Dr. Ramtohul provided reassurances regarding the Mobile ID initiative, clarifying that it will not involve selfie photographs or middleware, but will be based solely on the physical identity card without any biometric data. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens’ data privacy and ensuring their rights are not infringed. Additionally, he confirmed that the database of photographs used for SIM card registration will be erased as part of efforts to enhance data protection measures. 

Skip to content