[sgbuffett]

I thought the discussion is quite interesting instead of looking narrowly at the NRIC unmasking....broader issues on how and whether we should trust the govt with our data. 

[sgbuffett]

In a surveillance state, say China, the govt insists on having almost all control over data and access to all data on demand. Whereas in Western countries the tech firms can refuse govt request for information unless it is linked a crime is committed.

Today there is a lot of data that be collected through surveillance systems. Digital databases and online activity. This is the realization of BIG BROTHER.

There is a difference between the govt using such data for beneficial activities like solving crimes and using it to watch you like in Big Brother.

Many years ago when Chiam See Tong was emerging as a political opposition his O Level results were release by the other side to paint him as being academically weak and to embarrass him.

Data is a powerful tool and can be used against someone and a means to control the people when you are acting against their interest and face opposition. It is often asymptomatic in nature with one side having disproportionately higher amounts of resource.

Just when Tan Chuan Jin scandal broke and old video showing a scandal between 2 WP members were released and that help to blunt the damage for one side and destroyed the political careers of people on the other side. How was the data collected? Not sure but what is shows is how it can be used for political purposes.

Unless we absolutely trust the govt we should be asking how our data is being managed by the govt and who has access to it and what kind of justification for access is in place.

[Wy:Nox]

Actually, this whole catalogue of human disaster is chained by the Govt’s Top Down Approach in their system and process. Just look at SingPost with the same issue.