DOJ to telcos: Install ‘kill switch’ now

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has called on telecommunications companies to immediately install the so-called “kill switch” software in mobile phones to protect security and privacy of users.

In a statement yesterday, DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima advised telcos not to wait for the passage of House Bill 4511 and House Resolution 93, which both intend to require all network service providers to install the software on mobile phones.

 “We do not need legislation to implement this. It is the responsibility of telcos as public utilities to prevent crimes and ensure that technology is used to address peace and order issues,” De Lima said.

The kill switch software enables service providers to remotely disable cellular phones and erase data when reported stolen, lost or missing by owners. 

The DOJ chief pointed out that the software has effectively reduced the incidence of mobile phone theft in London, United Kingdom and two major cities in the United States.

 “Commuters and consumers who work hard and save for their phones only to be victimized by criminals will benefit from a small effort from our telcos,” De Lima added.

The DOJ issued the advisory which it dubbed a “common sense solution to a specific type of crime” upon recommendation of its Office of the Cybercrime.

Earlier, the DOJ expressed its support to proposed measures in the House of Representatives that would require network service providers to install the software in cellular phones.

De Lima noted that the bill is within the purview of what is embodied in Article II on the Declaration of Principles and State Policies of the 1987 Constitution, particularly Section 5 thereof, which promotes the maintenance of peace and which promotes the maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty and property, and the promotion of the general welfare being essential for the enjoyment of all the people.

HB 4511 was authored by AMA Partylist Rep. Lorna Velasco, while House Resolution No. 93 was introduced by Bicol Partylist group Reps. Christopher Co and Joel Batocabe.

However, the DOJ had cautioned the proponent of the bill on the method of pre-installing the software as hackers may gain access on the “kill message” that would be installed in the mobile phones.