Lebanon’s Financial Institution Data Protection Laws Face Scrutiny
BEIRUT - Lebanon’s financial institution data protection laws are under increasing scrutiny as concerns grow about the safety and security of sensitive personal information collected by government-operated platforms, including the DAEM Social Safety Net.
The Need for Greater Transparency and Accountability
Human rights advocates are calling for greater transparency and accountability in the way government agencies and private companies collect, process, and store personal data.
“We welcome the Central Inspection’s efforts to clarify issues related to data management and collection,” said a spokesperson from SMEX, a digital rights organization. “However, we urge all government agencies and private companies to prioritize privacy, data security, and transparency in their operations.”
The DAEM Platform: A Lack of Clear Policies on Data Storage and Ownership
The DAEM platform has been criticized for its lack of clear policies on data storage and ownership.
Key Questions Remain Unanswered
Despite the Central Inspection’s clarification on some issues related to data management and collection, many questions remain unanswered. Advocates are calling for further clarification on the following matters:
- Which state administration or institution is responsible for abiding by the obligations imposed on parties collecting and processing personal data, in accordance with Law No. 81/20218?
- Which official and unofficial third parties have access to this data (organizations, security agencies, donors, etc.)? And why are they given access to it?
- Why is IMPACT’s mail server still hosted by a German web-hosting service provider?
- What is the actual location of the server IPs storing encrypted data?
The Demand for Greater Transparency and Accountability Continues to Grow
The demand for greater transparency and accountability in Lebanon’s financial institution data protection laws continues to grow. As the country moves forward, advocates will remain vigilant, pushing for the enactment of comprehensive legislation that protects citizens’ rights to data protection and privacy.
Enacting Comprehensive Legislation to Protect Citizens’ Rights
SMEX is urging the government to enact legislation that protects citizens’ right to data protection and privacy.
“We believe that enacting a comprehensive privacy law is essential for protecting citizens’ rights and promoting transparency in government operations,” said a spokesperson from SMEX. “We will continue to monitor the situation and push for greater accountability from government agencies and private companies operating in the country.”