Stop sharing people’s personal information! Data Commissioner warns Kenyans

By Moses Muli

Published: June 19,2024 03:31 PM

The office of the Data Protection Commissioner has warned Kenyans against sharing other people’s personal information publicly.

In a statement, the Data Commissioner said a section of Kenyans have been doing this without the consent of the owners.

The statement said the move contravenes Article 31 of the Constitution.

“This practice has been happening without the affected citizens’ consent contrary to the provisions of Article 31 of the Constitution of Kenya, the Data Protection Act, 2019 and its attendant regulations.

“In view of the foregoing, the office wishes to advise members of the public to refrain from further sharing of personal information which infringes on individuals’ rights to privacy,” the office said.

It added that some of the information that has been distributed without consent includes names, telephone numbers, locations and details of their family members.

The Data Commissioner also urged those whose information has been shared to file complaints.

“The office encourages any member of the public whose privacy has been violated to file a complaint via complaint@odpc.go.ke”

A section of internet users had shared details of police. elected leaders especially phone numbers on various social media platforms.

They mobilized other Kenyans to reach out to their leaders and ask them to vote against the Finance Bill 2024.

Following Tuesday’s protests, a section of social media users decided to share personal details of police officers who allegedly harassed Kenyans who were peacefully demonstrating.

The details included where they reside, their children as well as other family members, phone numbers as well as their workstations.