4
4.3
policy’. This policy should be written in easy-to-understand language, spelling out the
implications of when the user’s data would be shared, with whom, and why. They
should be clearly made known to all staff, particularly those with accessnto sensitive
data, and the sanctions for breaching them known. The International Standards and
Guidance in section D below set out what issues to address when developing their
policies and systems. 354
Ensure that businesses’ terms and conditions or privacy policies are publically
available so users or customers are aware of what personal data may be collected or
shared. The policies should be available in Burmese and local languages. Putting in
place robust data protection standards is a good way for local companies to show they
are ready to meet data protection requirements from business partners, trading
partners and users.
Web Based Services
Develop and promote privacy controls: Overall digital literacy in Myanmar remains
low. Many users are interacting with web-based services for the first time. Some
international companies have controls in place that allow a user to manage his/her
‘digital footprint’ online in addition to their broader online experience. A large majority
of users in Myanmar are not familiar with these features. On social media, privacy
management controls allow the ability to selectively share or restrict information,
including access to photographs, contact information or profile accessibility (e.g. public
and private settings). For email communication such as newsletters or mailing lists,
this involves the ability to unsubscribe or customise subscription settings. Companies
need to raise awareness of these features through appropriate media and ensure
these features are available in local languages.
Develop and promote content-reporting mechanisms: Abusive or offensive
content can violate a user’s privacy. Larger social media platforms now maintain
community standards, which outline acceptable use online, while also providing
guidance to users on how to address violations of these standards in the case of
prohibited content or behaviour. Content reporting mechanisms allow users to report
abusive or invasive content to platform moderators. For first time users, understanding
how and when to report content is a critical part of ensuring a safe experience online.
Similar to privacy controls, companies must raise awareness of these features through
appropriate media, and ensure that community standards and reporting tools are
available in local languages 355.
D. Relevant International Standards and Guidance on
Privacy Issues
Relevant International Standards:
Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Group (APEC) 2005 Privacy Framework
EU Data Protection Directive 95/46
EU Directive on Privacy and Electronic Communications 02/58
354
See for example, European Commission, “ICT Sector Guide on Implementing the UN Guiding Principles on
Business and Human Rights“ (2013), pg. 21, 45-46.
355
In September 2015, Facebook launched a Burmese version of its community standards ‘Facebook rules
get local to tackle abuse’, Myanmar Times, 10 September 2015
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CHAPTER 4.3: PRIVACY