Leonel Fernández warns of national security and privacy risks

Santo Domingo.- Former Dominican President and leader of the Fuerza del Pueblo party, Leonel Fernández, resumed his “La Voz del Pueblo” meetings, raising concerns about national security and privacy. Speaking from the Johnny Ventura People’s House, Fernández criticized the National Institute of Transit and Land Transport (INTRANT) and its dealings with Transcore Latam, a company whose contract was canceled in 2023 for irregularities but continued operating under unclear circumstances.

Fernández pointed out that the company’s control over critical infrastructure, such as traffic light networks and surveillance cameras, raises privacy concerns. He questioned why a private company has access to sensitive data, including tracking mobile phones, which could result in mass surveillance. He cited Article 44 of the Constitution, which guarantees privacy, and noted the cameras’ potential for misuse, especially those installed in sensitive areas like the National Palace.

Fernández also highlighted unauthorized radio frequency emissions from INTRANT-controlled buildings, which could track individuals’ locations via their phones, calling it a “flagrant violation” of privacy. He warned of potential risks if such companies were involved in future state projects, such as biometric passports or ID renewals, and called for transparency from the government.

He urged the government to address these security and privacy concerns, emphasizing that such tasks should remain the sole responsibility of the state, not private entities.