NEW DELHI: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India ( Trai ) is likely to seek more powers to regulate the flow of data from users to app makers, while defining what comprises personal information, as it finalises recommendations on data ownership, privacy and security that are likely to be released this month.According to people aware of the discussions, the telecom regulator may suggest an amendment to the Trai Act or seek government intervention in getting the tools required to gain larger control on the data flowing through telecom networks, including that of apps riding on the networks. “They should come within this month,” a second person said.The recommendations will come amid a global uproar around data privacy and protection triggered by revelations that British data firm Cambridge Analytica had illegally accessed information of some 87 million Facebook users, including over half a million Indians, and had allegedly influenced elections. Apple said the app violated its privacy rules as it sought the users’ call and message details. Trai’s view was that the data belonged to users, and it was not for Apple to deny access.Trai had said its paper was aimed at covering the broader aspects of developing a framework that can give people more control over their personal data and prevent chances of misuse amid lingering privacy concerns.“The problem is urgent. The problem is also difficult, because thus far we have not dealt with these kinds of problems.

Source: Economic Times April 11, 2018 02:15 UTC