Personal data of citizens being sold openly on digital platforms according to investigation
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A thriving illicit market for personal data has emerged online, where sensitive citizen information is being openly traded through websites, social media platforms, and encrypted messaging services.
An investigation by the data verification firm Dismislab has uncovered at least 10 active websites dedicated to the sale of private individual records. Beyond these platforms, the report identified more than 600 advertisements promoting the sale of personal information on Facebook within a single month.
The trade encompasses a wide range of sensitive data, including national identification numbers, passport details, and taxpayer identification numbers. Buyers can also purchase granular personal records, such as call detail logs, mobile phone location history, SMS archives, and statements from mobile financial services.
These illegal transactions are facilitated through various digital channels, including advertisements on Facebook, dedicated websites, and messaging applications such as Telegram and WhatsApp. The findings highlight a significant vulnerability in data protection, as highly sensitive documentation and private communication logs remain readily available for purchase.
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