Fraud with personal data, or even identity theft: it’s on the increase. But that won’t happen to you. Or will it? Unfortunately, identity-related fraud is a type of crime that is on the rise. This includes the illegitimate use of passport copies. Computer criminals are already making more money with stolen personal data than with credit card fraud. But what are personal data, and how do you handle them in such a way that you can prevent problems?
Your personal data
Basically, these are all data that can be traced back to you as an individual. This includes your name and address, details of your employer, your social security number, your driving license, passport and healthcare card – including your medical files – your banking details along with your pin or login code, and so on.
What are the risks?
Fortunately, your personal data will not have you end up in prison in the Netherlands. But there are countries where that is a risk. This usually happens in connection with special personal data in reference to someone’s religion, ethnicity, medical background, political views, sex life, trade union membership, or criminal history. The risks of personal data in the Netherlands are different. Computer criminals can use your personal data to commit crimes and go unpunished. For example, by purchasing goods in your name, or by claiming medical costs with your health insurance. Read more on identity fraud.
What is legally allowed in relation to my personal data?
Other parties – including NHL Stenden – may only process your details if this is done in accordance with laws and regulations. They also must record which personal data they process, and where and why. Read more about NHL Stenden and my personal data.
Passport copy? No!
Safeguarding your privacy is often a matter of common sense. For example: what do you do when an organisation or person asks for a passport copy? Obviously you don’t comply! It is only your employer who must keep a copy of your passport for their administration. Occasionally, financial and medical institutions may require one. Do you need a passport copy to identify yourself? Use an ID cover to hide your social security number and passport picture. These are available at the ANWB, and at other locations.
Employee? Familiarise yourself with the procedures.
As a NHL Stenden employee, you should check whether you’re keeping passport copies somewhere. Are they still of use? If not, remove and/or destroy them. Read up on NHL Stenden’s policies on this subject. For example, just sending passport copies by email is not allowed. If you have to share these details, then use a secure delivery method.
Data breach with passport copies? Report it.
Have you come across a paper passport copy at NHL Stenden? Prevent abuse and destroy it. Is it possible for you to see other people’s digital passport copies in the NHL Stenden computer system? This constitutes a data breach. Report it immediately via NHL Stenden’s Hotline for Data Breaches.