Telecom Cybersecurity Rules Under Scrutiny: Privacy Concerns Arise

A parliamentary panel has highlighted privacy issues in the Telecom Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Rules, 2024. It recommends refining definitions and data permissions, stressing the importance of explicit guidance to prevent privacy violations, and protecting individuals from being falsely implicated in fraudulent activities.

A parliamentary panel has raised concerns over privacy issues within the Telecom Cybersecurity Rules and the Critical Infrastructure Rules, 2024, as reported in the Rajya Sabha this Thursday.

The Committee on Subordinate Legislation criticized the rules for their vague definitions and recommended that the Department of Telecom refine them to prevent privacy violations. Chaired by Milind Deora, the panel specifically pointed out the broad allowance for data collection by the government, which could potentially infringe on privacy rights.

The committee urged the Department to clearly define permissible data categories and the term 'fraudulent' to protect innocent individuals from mistaken accusations. Emphasis was placed on establishing explicit criteria and processes, providing robust support to telecom entities and users.

(With inputs from agencies.)