Governments tap Covid data for other uses, risking backlash


A general view shows the ArtScience Museum (left) against the backdrop of the city skyline in Singapore. After countries from the US to Australia to Israel collected reams of data during the pandemic, largely with public support, they may start to see uses for that information beyond the original intent. — AFP

In early 2020, as the coronavirus began to ricochet around the world with terrifying consequence, Harish Pillay decided to do whatever he could to help stop the spread.

The software engineer, who lives in Singapore, heard the government was designing an app to track the virus so he emailed the minister in charge and asked how he could help. He was part of a fellowship of developers and engineers who volunteered their services, ready to pitch in on a solution.

Subscribe now for a chance to win your dream holiday!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Tech News

SoftBank has discussed energy project funding with banks, The Information reports
Russia says Apple blocks 25 VPN apps in Russia, IFX reports
Bitcoin hits 2-month low on election uncertainty, Mt Gox flows
Foxconn gets licence to invest $551 million more in Vietnam, media reports
Russian-linked cybercampaigns put a bull’s-eye on France. Their focus? The Olympics and elections
If AI can do your job, maybe it can also replace your CEO
China science body lists ‘digital humans’ and optical chips among key challenges
Hong Kong police rescue boy, 3, abducted for alleged HK$5mil crypto ransom, arrest two
Japan deploys humanoid robot for railway maintenance
The workplace attention span is dead: Most office workers can’t go 30 minutes without getting distracted

Others Also Read