E-Business
FG to Improve Data Protection, Citizen’s Privacy
Federal government has pledged its commitment to improve its capacity to protect the personal information, data and privacy of citizens, in line with global data regulations.
This has become necessary given the advancement of technology and digitization, which has given rise to cases of data breaches and privacy infringements of individuals and organizations.
Dr Vincent Olatunji, national commissioner/CEO, National Data Protection Commission (NDPC) made this known on Tuesday in Abuja, at a Digital Rights Innovation Lab meeting organised by Accountability Lab Nigeria in collaboration with, Spaces for Change, National Data Protection Commission, Paradigm Initiative Nigeria, and National Endowment for Democracy.
Represented by Chiderah Claire Ikeokonkwo, head of the Innovation Unit, Nigeria Data Protection Commission, NDPC, he noted that besides educating the public on the need to protect the value of information and content shared on online platforms of the government was also committed to deepening awareness, strengthening data protection mechanisms in order to instil trust and confidence.
He said: “Everything we do these days is connected to technology and as a result of that, we need to be able to have some control over the use, the access, what exactly is being done with this information that we exchange online.
“So, at the Nigeria data protection commission we regulate the processing of personal data, which means that we superintend over issues of data protection and privacy in all sectors of the economy and so in terms of work, the kind of work that we do with civil society organizations like accountability lab, it centres around stakeholder engagements.
“We also organize trainings you know, any form of capacity building just to make sure that we are doing something to positively increase the awareness on data protection and privacy in Nigeria and to also make sure that we’re building the number of experts on the issue of data protection and privacy.
“If people are aware of what happens when they are exchanging information online, then they will be better informed about how they can protect themselves online. Because most of these platforms are free of charge. It’s free to use and then we process your information, usually based on consent.
“You sign up to this app and you exchange the information. So, it then becomes necessary for citizens, data subjects, users, whatever you would call them, to be informed about data protection laws about their digital rights so that the more that they know about these rights the better they will be in a position to actually make sure that these rights are not being abused.
“So, it’s not a question of how safe are you. I think it’s more of how much you know and how much are you willing to do to protect the value of the information that you’re sharing online
Odeh Friday Odeh, country director, Accountability Lab, said there was a need for citizens to begin to manage information and have the confidence their digital rights and data were adequately protected
Odeh who urged the federal government to uphold the total rights and privacy of Nigerians, stressed the need for a balance in order to forestall incidences of hate speech, misinformation and disinformation among users in the digital space.
He said: “Just thinking what has happened over internet governance, interment shutdown in Africa and in the world, how can we as citizens have our rights protected, how can we ensure that the Government also stands for us?
“We want national unity but we need to build the foundation on truth. Look at what tools young people are using in terms of digital tools and how they can thrive in our society.
Information is key but nevertheless, we also have thought about the challenges that have to do with content, which go on a digital platform which causes disunity in some contexts, causes hate speech in some contexts as defined, but nevertheless, we need to create a balance.
“So we are bringing this platform together with government officials, civil society organizations working on digital rights and data protection, to see how we can form collaborative or collective actions to understand how we can provide solution.”
Mnenga Shiiwua, programme officer Accountability Lab, added, “We’re looking for an innovative opportunity where we’ll be able to sensitize people and create a collaborative approach towards pushing the understanding of the Nigerian data protection Act to the citizens to engage the relevant stakeholders, those from the civil society organizations and the governments at site, to see how together we can ensure the awareness about the Act is deepened and to see how together we can protect the rights of the citizens.”
It is holiday season in many parts of the world. These days though, going on holiday does not always mean turning your back on office life – hybrid work cuts both ways.
Today’s widespread connectivity—available at airports, train stations, restaurants, hotels, and most indoor public spaces—makes staying connected easier than ever, with free Wi-Fi in many locations and reliable 4G or 5G coverage elsewhere, helping to facilitate a seamless blend of work and leisure even while on holiday.
This increase in connectivity among travellers has not gone unnoticed by cyber criminals. Kaspersky experts analysed nearly 25,000 free Wi-Fi spots in Paris ahead of the Summer Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. The analysis revealed that almost 25% of these networks had weak or no encryption, making users vulnerable to personal and banking data theft.
Travellers often have their guard down. The unfamiliar surroundings of a new location or a different language can throw up a useful smokescreen for a cyberattack, meaning additional care needs to be taken when logging on. Fortunately, a few smart tools and habits can help you stay protected while enjoying the flexibility of remote work.
Use a VPN for secure connections
A VPN is one of the most effective ways to safeguard users’ online activity, especially when working from unfamiliar locations. By encrypting Internet traffic, a VPN ensures that hackers can’t intercept sensitive data like login credentials or financial details. This is particularly important when accessing work emails or company files on public Wi-Fi, where cybercriminals often lurk.
Switch to an eSIM for reliable, secure mobile data
Another useful digital tool that provides a seamless way to stay connected using local mobile networks with no physical SIM card required is the eSIM. This is a game-changer for international travellers who want to avoid sky-high roaming charges or the hassle of hunting down temporary SIM cards in foreign countries.
With an eSIM, a user can download a local data plan before you even arrive at your destination, ensuring instant connectivity the moment you land. This eliminates the need to rely on unsecured Wi-Fi hotspots, significantly reducing your exposure to cyber threats.
Plus, many eSIM providers allow you to manage multiple profiles on a single device, making it easy to switch between work and personal data plans without juggling multiple phones.
Services like Kaspersky eSIM Store enables users to purchase and activate data plans in advance, track usage and top up as needed, all from a single app.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
When travelling, people often leave devices unattended. To protect against unwanted people logging in, travellers should ensure two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled on all critical accounts and that passwords are used on all devices.
Final tips for a secure workation
Even with a VPN, eSIM and 2FA in place, your devices still need strong defenses against malware, phishing scams and ransomware. Cybercriminals often target remote workers who may let their guard down while travelling, making real-time protection essential.
Modern antivirus software does more than just scan for viruses, it actively blocks malicious downloads, warns you about phishing attempts and even secures your passwords and financial data.
For the most robust security, consider a solution like Kaspersky Premium, which combines antivirus protection, a VPN and password management into a single, easy-to-use package.
By combining a VPN, eSIM and strong antivirus, you can work from anywhere with confidence, whether you’re sending emails from a poolside or joining a video call from a festival tent.
E-Business
Zequence Digital Boss Calls for Strong IP Laws Enforcement, to Protect Nigeria’s Software Sector
Mr Adeoye Oludamilola, managing director, Zequence Digital, a digital agency, has said strong enforcement of Intellectual Property (IP) laws , protection of Nigeria’s software industry against piracy will encourage innovation and investment.
Adeoye told reporters lately in Lagos that software piracy and the unauthorised use of proprietary technology are widespread in the country.
According to report Intellectual Property (IP) laws in software refers to the legal rights that protect the creations of the mind used in software development.
These rights, which include copyrights, patents, trade secrets, and trademarks, grant developers exclusive control over their software and related assets, preventing unauthorised use or reproduction.
Adeoye said that many startups do not protect their innovations, due to a lack of knowledge and the cumbersome legal processes involved.
“IP registration and litigation are expensive and time-consuming, which further discourages developers from protecting their work,” Adeoye said.
He added that the lack of awareness among developers about their IP rights contributed to the problem.
To address these challenges, Adeoye stressed the need for the formation of an IP Protection Consortium, comprising tech firms, legal experts, and regulators, to advocate for stronger IP enforcement.
He also suggested collaborating with legal tech startups to create simplified platforms for fast-tracked IP registration.
The managing director further called for joint initiatives between legal bodies and tech communities to launch IP rights education campaigns.
This, he said, would equip developers with the knowledge they needed to protect their innovations and grow their businesses.
Adeoye emphasised the need for the government and stakeholders to create an ecosystem for development and inclusivity by proactively engaging with regulators.
According to him, this will help ensure that policies are created with the input of concerned agencies and industry experts.
PalmPay, a leading fintech platform and full-stack digital neobank for emerging markets, has partnered with Nigeria’s biggest Health Insurance Company, AXA Mansard Health a member of the globally trusted AXA Group, to provide millions of Nigerians with affordable, accessible digital health insurance.
This strategic partnership enables PalmPay users to seamlessly access a range of health insurance packages from AXA Mansard directly within the PalmPay app. With plans starting as low as N500 per month, users can now choose from flexible insurance options tailored to fit their everyday needs.
The plans are designed to meet a wide range of needs; for example, the AXA Digital Health plan offers access to telemedicine consultations with doctors, N5,000 worth of medications, and up to N40,000 in surgical coverage. Users can also opt for the AXA Mansard MicroHealth plan at N1,000 per month, which provides unlimited diagnostic tests and funeral benefits. Additionally, the AXA Mansard Accident plan, available for N500 monthly, offers comprehensive death cover for both accidental and non-accidental cases.
Speaking on the partnership, Habib Kowontan, Head of Wealth Product at PalmPay, said: “Insurance is a key pillar of financial security, yet millions of Nigerians remain underserved. Our partnership with AXA Mansard Health breaks down long-standing barriers by placing reliable and affordable insurance solutions right at our users’ fingertips.”
In her remarks, Jumoke Odunlami, Chief Distribution Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance said that the partnership with Palmpay presents the AXA with another opportunity to improve health and productivity of Nigerians. “Through partnerships like this, we are covering over 1.8 million Nigerians and ensuring that healthcare is accessible, available and affordable.
“So we are excited about joining forces with a brand like Palmpay to compliment the range of financial possibilities they offer their customers with health plans. It fits well with our mission and our purpose of acting for human progress by protecting what matters, and we are looking forward to doing even more with Palmpay”, she explained.
This partnership reflects PalmPay’s broader mission to create a more inclusive digital financial ecosystem, one that empowers users to not only manage their money efficiently, but also secure their future.
This partnership reflects PalmPay’s broader mission to create a more inclusive digital financial ecosystem, one that empowers users to not only manage their money efficiently, but also secure their future.
Firm Shares Tips for Safer Remote Working
NCC Bars Ex-Officials from Joining Telecom Firms for 5 Years
Airtel, Vodacom sign Network Infrastructure Agreement to Drive Digital Inclusion
Truecaller Crosses 100m Users in MEA Region
World Bank Approves $300m Loan to Support IDPs in Northern Nigeria
News2 days agoGoogle Hit by AI-driven Cyber Attack
General News2 days agoKuwait Busts Nigerian Cybercrime Ring Targeting Telecom Tower, Banks
News2 days agoFIRS Rolls out e-invoicing System for Large Corporate Taxpayers
E-Business2 days agoZequence Digital Boss Calls for Strong IP Laws Enforcement, to Protect Nigeria’s Software Sector
E-Business2 days agoPalmPay Partners AXA Mansard Health to Make Digital Insurance Accessible, Affordable
Telecom2 days agoMTN Nigeria’s Mega Billion Promo Turns Airtime into Fortune for Thousands Amid Economic Strain
Telecom2 days agoT2 Commits to Innovation, Resilience as Customer-centric Ethos Form New Focus
Telecom2 days agoI see Crisis, Resignations @ MTN, Airtel, Others – Primate Ayodele