Odido, formerly T-Mobile, is being punished for collaborating with CBS. Unsolicited location data from millions of subscribers was used to develop an algorithm. This was used to track the movements of groups of citizens based on location data. The data would be encrypted, but could also be decrypted. That's what NRC reports.

 

NRC reported the controversial collaboration between Odido (then still T-Mobile) and the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) in 2021. Customers were not informed about this collaboration. The algorithm could help governments invest in infrastructure, because governments could see where groups of people are during the day. This can help determine where, for example, a carpool lane should be located, according to NRC.

Access to subscriber traffic data

To develop the algorithm, CBS employees were given access to the 'traffic data' of 2,5 million to 4,5 million subscribers for almost two years, according to a report. research published on Monday of the RDI, the former Telecom Agency.

At the time, Odido did everything he could not to publicize the collaboration with CBS. At the beginning of 2020, the telecom company wanted to continue developing the algorithm, but management informed CBS that communication about it was "excluded". The PR risks would be too great. This was evident from documents that NRC requested at the time in reliance on the Government Information (Public Access) Act (Wob).

CBS appoints privacy officer

In a written response, Odido stated that it will not appeal against the fine imposed. “Odido has always emphasized that there was no sharing of personal data with CBS. That is why the provider is also pleased that the RDI has stated that it cannot establish that non-anonymous data has been provided," said Odido's response. In response to the developments surrounding this case, CBS has decided to appoint a chief privacy officer. The fine that has now been imposed is 175.000 euros. (NRC)

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