‘Unfriend’ strangers in social media — NPC

MANILA, Philippines — Stay away from strangers.

The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has advised Filipino netizens to protect their data by unfriending people whom they barely know in social media.

A recent campaign, called Unfriend Day, is gaining traction online for the agency’s creative take on data privacy.

“If you can unfriend your ex, then you should also do the same to complete strangers on your friends’ list,” an infographic written in Filipino read.

“Do you have thousands of friends, but many of whom you barely know? It’s time to double check your list and start unfriending. Your data is safe with your true friends,” it added.

The campaign, which was launched on Friday night, has received hundreds of shares and reactions on social media site Facebook as of yesterday afternoon.

The NPC earlier said common data privacy threats faced by internet users include identity theft and unauthorized use of their personal information.

Since its creation last year, the NPC has been active in promoting data privacy, both among individuals and private and public institutions.

The privacy body was created following the passage of the Data Privacy Act in 2012.

It is mandated to develop and constantly review rules and regulations covering data privacy in the country, as well as serve as an advisory body on matters affecting the protection of personal data.

The NPC is also tasked to monitor compliance on the provisions of the law and adjudicate complaints and investigations on matters affecting personal data.