NDPC is set to ban the mobile numbers of lenders over privacy violations. The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is considering taking action against lenders who have misused their customers’ mobile numbers, possibly by banning or restricting the use of these numbers.
NDPC to Ban the Mobile Numbers Of Lenders
The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is currently investigating over 400 cases of privacy violations related to digital lenders, particularly due to issues of customer harassment. This move comes in response to ongoing concerns about the misuse of personal information by lenders.
This development comes six months after Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) removed several loan apps from the Google Play Store to safeguard customers against fraudulent activities. However, despite these efforts, the problems caused by digital lenders persist.
NDPC Annual Report for 2023
In its annual report for 2023, the NDPC highlighted that ongoing investigations have revealed that loan apps often exhibit overly intrusive behavior. These apps typically have access to a wide range of personal data, including contacts, photos, and messages, raising concerns about privacy violations.
The NDPC acknowledged that the issue goes beyond individual cases and is systemic in nature. As part of its response, the commission plans to collaborate with other regulators and third-party platforms utilized by lenders to implement systemic solutions.
The Nigeria Data Protection Act-General Application and Implementation Directive
To address these challenges comprehensively, the NDPC has drafted the Nigeria Data Protection Act-General Application and Implementation Directive. This directive emphasizes the importance of addressing data breaches, promoting data ethics, and incorporating privacy measures by design and default.
NDPC Collaboration with Regulators through the Joint Enforcement and Regulatory Taskforce
Furthermore, the NDPC is working in collaboration with regulators through the Joint Enforcement and Regulatory Taskforce to improve standards within the digital lending sector and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
“Under abetment, the third-party platforms through which data privacy breaches take place will now be required to deny access to those who use their platforms for privacy breaches.
“Organisations, particularly communication networks, should be willing to restrict or ban telephone lines that are implicated in privacy violations,” the commission explained.
Lending Companies Need To Get Approval from the NDPC
Now, lending companies need to get approval from the NDPC before they can start operating.
Remember, on November 16, 2022, Google Play changed its rules for app developers. This means that digital lenders in Nigeria have to follow the rules set by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to be on Google Play.
Additionally, they have to give Google Play other details that show they follow the rules set by the right authorities in Nigeria.
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