The Election Commission (EC) has announced new measures to prevent potential data leaks from its National Identity (NID) database, stating that it will no longer provide direct access to personal data during NID verification services for firms. ASM Humayun Kabir, Director General of the EC’s NID Registration Wing, confirmed the change on Monday, explaining that firms will now receive only a “matched” or “unmatched” response, without access to detailed personal information.
Speaking to reporters at his office, Humayun Kabir explained that 182 firms currently use the EC’s data server for NID verification services. Previously, these firms had access to some personal details for verification purposes. However, following evidence of data leaks, the EC has decided to limit access to prevent further breaches.
“This new process will not affect the firms’ ability to verify NIDs. They will simply receive a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response, which will meet their needs for verification,” said Kabir.
The decision follows a series of meetings held last week between the EC and representatives from various banks, government organizations, and other firms. These discussions aimed to improve data security and prevent leaks to third parties.
A special team, including law enforcement and security personnel, will be formed to monitor the systems of firms involved in the verification process. The EC is determined to protect the integrity of NID data at all costs.
Kabir also revealed that, as part of the verification process, firms will still be able to view portraits of the individuals they are verifying. He emphasized that the steps being taken are essential to safeguarding valuable personal information.
Additionally, during a meeting with regional election officers, Kabir provided an update on the progress of clearing a backlog of NID applications. The EC had previously announced plans to resolve 378,000 pending applications within three months. “I am pleased to report that around 50 percent of the pending applications have already been processed,” he added, expressing satisfaction with the progress so far.
