The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), popularly known as Pohottuwa (Lotus bud), is getting ready for another illicit and perilous gill mart of collecting biometric (personnel) data commencing from tomorrow.
The SLPP has entrusted this task to groups of youth specially selected for this purpose in all electorates countrywide.
They will visit the door steps of registered voters and collect their highly sensitive and personnel data (smart data) such as national identity card number, date of birth, address, occupation and other relevant information.
This campaign has been planned under the guise of collecting data to improve the living standard of the people ensuring them with jobs and income avenues etc.
A senior official of the Department of Census and Statistics noted that the collection of smart data without the permission of the department was illegal.
The official pointed out that the increased availability and sharing of data could result in sensitive data such a NIC numbers falling into the wrong hands if not properly and fairly processed.
This will lead to the exposing of bank accounts of individuals and other sensitive information including income, their savings and life insurance and even information on whether they own their own homes.
The aim of the SLPP in collecting smart data is to make assumptions or predictions about voters, a senior member of the party said.
It also allows them to send targeted emails or telephone canvass voters as well as decide who to doorstep during the campaign or on the day of voting.
The collecting of personal data by unknown persons will lead to a serious national issue, Census and Statistics Department official warned.
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