EU justice commissioner Didier Reynders said on Thursday that virus-tracking applications are only to be used for the duration of the pandemic and will need to be de-activated immediately after the crisis is over.
EU justice commissioner Didier Reynders said on Thursday that virus-tracking applications are only to be used for the duration of the pandemic and will need to be deactivated immediately after the crisis is over.
A number of countries are hurrying to develop mobile tracing apps, in the hope that smartphone technology will aid in bringing about a reopening of borders and economic activity without risking a second surge of the pandemic, according to Reuters.
“Apps cannot be used for mass surveillance. Individuals will keep control on their data,” Reynders told EU lawmakers in a plenary sitting, as deputies re-emphasized the possible threat to privacy.
“Apps should be only used during the crisis and be deactivated at the latest when the pandemic is over,” Reynders said, noting that deactivation is to occur even if users neglect to uninstall the applications.
Libby’s Desk
Commentary and must-reads from Libby’s desk, straight to your inbox.
TPM Newsletter
The Post Millennial’s top stories, delivered to your inbox.
