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“Due to the widespread use of information technologies, the protection of personal data becomes a more serious issue,” Chairman of the Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression Ashot Melikyan noted during the public discussion on the topic of the protection of personal data.

To note the discussion has been organized by the Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression in cooperation with Open Society Foundations – Armenia.

In the words of A. Melikyan the situation in the virtual reality is almost out of control but the state must take measures to ensure the confidentiality of personal information and the right of inviolability for personal life.

Head of Personal Data Protection Department of the Ministry of Justice Shushan Doydoyan noted three main spheres have been prioritized: video taping, messages and protection of children’s personal data.

She informed that they have worked out a comprehensive guide related to videotaping. Although the book has no binding requirement, it provides advice and underscores the main points which are to be observed by every person.

“We have worked out a draft law on the undesirable consequences. For instance a person should not receive a message with a commercial content if he/she has not given the consent. Even if they have given a consent they should be able to discard it,” Sh. Doydoyan noted.

She hopes that the draft law will be approved will the end of the year.

In her opinion one of the most important matters is the protection of personal data of minors. She has noted that an appropriate guide is under development currently, but it will be completed after the public opinion polls and discussions.
“The protection of personal data of minors is an issue of national security for our country,” she underscored.

She also stated that there is no organization operating both in the public and private sectors that has no issues.

“Breaches are observed at every step. We constantly voice them,” Sh. Doydoyan said.