A System Similar to the "Safe Number" That Virtualizes Personal Information
In response to the large-scale leak of Coupang member information, which included a massive outflow of address data such as delivery locations, the government has decided to consider implementing a "Safe Address" system to protect address information. The Safe Address system would display a virtual address instead of the real one, similar to the widely used Safe Number system.
On December 17, during a hearing on the Coupang hacking incident held by the Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting Committee of the National Assembly, Paek Jonghun, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT, was asked by Lee Junseok, leader of the Reform New Party, whether he was willing to study the Safe Address policy. Paek replied, "It is an issue worth considering."
On the 17th, Paek Jonghun, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT, who attended the hearing related to the Coupang breach incident held at the Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting Committee of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, is responding to questions from lawmakers. Photo by Yonhap News
The Safe Number service assigns a temporary virtual number, such as one starting with the prefix 050, instead of exposing the actual phone number, in order to protect personal information during product deliveries and secondhand transactions. By linking the Safe Number to the real mobile number, individuals can communicate without revealing their actual number. The proposal is to apply a similar information protection measure to the address system.
Lee Junseok emphasized, "I believe the Safe Address system can definitely be implemented. It is important for the Korea Post to take the lead in adopting and using the Safe Address."
Ryu Jemyoung, Second Vice Minister of Science and ICT, also responded, "We will actively consider the Safe Address system."
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