Bukola Afeni
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission, NDPC has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the data processing activities of Optasia which operates in Nigeria as Nairtime Nigeria Ltd.
NDPC National Commissioner and CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji gave the order in a statement by the Head, Legal, Enforcement & Regulations Babatunde Bamigboye
This inquiry was triggered by evidence of potential data processing irregularities uncovered during regular oversight of key data handlers.
The statement reads: “The Commission notes with grave concern that Optasia deploys privacy invading technologies to process personal data for the purposes of marketing, credit scoring and other financial solutions.
“The investigation of credit scoring activities covers the way financial institutions, telecommunication companies, insurance companies among others process personal data of citizens for various purposes. ”
“The National Commissioner enjoins data controllers and data processors of major importance who rely on third parties as mediums through which the personal data of the Nigerian populace may be processed to ensure that such third parties are duly registered with the Commission. This measure will ensure accountability, strengthen data security architecture and protect Nigeria’s data sovereignty.”
