Mexico's Controversial New Phone Law: Big Brother is Watching?

Mexico's Proposed Phone Data Law Sparks Privacy Concerns Mexico City – A proposed law currently under discussion in the Mexican Congress is raising serious concerns about citizen privacy. The legislation would mandate that all phone users provide extensive personal information, including their CURP, INE, RFC numbers, biometric data, and real-time location data, to retain or obtain phone service. This has prompted outrage from privacy advocates and experts. "This is a dangerous measure," stated Halley Ávila, a lawyer and academic at UNAM, in an interview featured in a recent Azteca Noticias report. "In the current climate, we are not willing to provide such sensitive data." The report highlights the potential for data breaches and misuse, referencing a 2021 incident where an electoral database containing over 91 million records was leaked online. The government defends the proposal, arguing it is crucial for combating extortion, kidnapping, and insecurity. However, critics counter that the extensive data collection is excessive and risks violating fundamental rights. Gonzalo Rojon, a telecom analyst, expressed apprehension about the lack of safeguards for this sensitive information. "The main fear is losing our information," he noted. "Who will protect this vast database containing all our biometric and other data?" The debate underscores the tension between national security and individual liberties in the digital age. The outcome of this legislation will have significant implications for the privacy rights of millions of Mexican citizens.