DFA takes down online passport tracker over ‘data privacy issue’

Philippine passport

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is probing the “data privacy issue” issue involving its online passport tracker, saying that it has taken down the platform.

“The DFA’s 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,” the DFA said in a statement.

“DFA-OCA (Office of Consular Affairs) has taken down the Online Passport Tracker and all its data sources to avoid further data broadcasting,” it added.

The passport tracker is an online platform that allows applicants to view the status of their applications. It was launched in Sept. 2021, according to the DFA.

“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 No. 10173) and is working with the National Privacy Commission in resolving this issue,” the DFA added.

Applicants were advised to reach out to DFA through the following contact details if they have questions regarding the status of their passport applications:

Email:

[email protected]

[email protected]

Hotlines:

09773533942
09619432021
09560526290
(02) 8651-9400
Social media:
Facebook: facebook.com/dfaphl

Twitter: twitter.com/DFAPHL or twitter.com/DFAOCA

Instagram: instagram.com/dfaphl

/MUF