DFA deactivates passport tracker over data breach

The Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday said it has deactivated its online passport tracking system due to data breach.

In a statement, the DFA said its IT Unit "is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this issue and is taking appropriate measures to secure the data that may have been exposed."

"An internal audit will also be conducted to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future," it added.

The Online Passport Tracker is a platform that allows applicants to view the status of their passport application. It was launched on September 11.

According to the DFA, its Office of Consular Affairs was made aware of a data privacy issue involving the tracking system on Tuesday.

"DFA-OCA has taken down the Online Passport Tracker and all its data sources to avoid further data broadcasting," it said.

The DFA did not provide further details, including the number of data that were exposed.

"DFA-OCA assures the public that it continues to prioritize the protection and privacy of the data it handles in accordance with the Data Privacy Act of 2021 (Republic Act 10173) and is working with the National Privacy Commission in resolving this issue."

Passport applicants are advised to directly call or email the DFA regarding the status of their passport applications: passportconcerns@dfa.gov.ph, oca@dfa.gov.ph and hotlines: 09773533942, 09619432021, 09560526290 or (02) 8651-9400. — VBL, GMA News