Holding government accountable
“In other words, through the Government Information (Public Access) Act (WOB), citizens can reconstruct decision-making processes within the government and in this way call a government to account. The same should be possible in the area of automatic data processing. As soon as the source code of government applications can be requested under the WOB, it is possible to check the integrity of the data processing. This can have a positive effect on a government, because citizens now have a great deal of distrust for everything that has to do with government and IT.
The underlying proposition is that IT should no longer be seen as a tool, but as an integral and essential part of the functioning of society and government, one of the pillars on which tasks can be performed. That alone requires that managers start to concern themselves with it. A manager should not be a digital illiterate. ”
The future: IT in education & social discussions
What does this mean for the individual?
“We need to work hard to become digitally literate. We have been wrongly educated. In education and in training and awareness programs, we are taught product skills without much insight. Estonia recently decided to include programming skills in the curriculum. Even if you never build a program again, you know what it entails. You know the (im)possibilities, can dive into the source code and interpret it for democratic control. But hey, you don't have to do that right away. It helps a lot if you are aware of the risks associated with the technology you use. Think of online banking via your smartphone. Do you know how many more or less risks you run than with banking via your desktop? Do you know what data is on your smartphone and what the consequences are if it is stolen? You can learn such literacy.”
Perhaps you are ahead of your time. What do you see happening in the near future?
“The parliamentary inquiry into government and IT will start soon, but the initial elaboration is such that we can expect little from it. It will undoubtedly become apparent that the government must define its role as client more sharply and interfere less with design and implementation. Also, do not add any new functionalities along the way. Then everyone will return to their daily routine.
The next conflict is in the pipeline, namely around the new EPD (Healthcare Infrastructure). As of 1 January 2013, we will be asked to give permission for data recording. The old EPD was shot down on sound grounds and I cannot imagine that the reincarnation inspires much more confidence. The fact that the health insurers are financing this raises questions. I would not be surprised if a major campaign is launched soon that will encourage an opt-out : a call not to participate.
I hope for solid social discussions about BYOD. The investment decisions are being made now and I sweden telegram data fear that they often come down to building new walls in the ICT Fortress . I call this the beginning of a new arms race, in this case with our own employees. But hey, fortunately these are the last gasps of an old IT paradigm. ”
Finally, what do you think are the most important tips for Frankwatching readers for their daily online safety?
Most importantly: become aware!
Know what you currently have stored on smartphones and tablets, how secure that storage is and what rights apps are given when installed (say no more often;
Be critical of new technology that enters companies and organizations;
Engage in internal and external debate;
Refuse to sign agreements etc. if they do not adequately safeguard your individual rights;
Immerse yourself in technology;
Take on responsibilities and authorities.
How do you deal with your daily online security and private devices that you use for your work?