Why is the Regulator Pressuring Coupang to Remove Data Leak Probe Results?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, South Korea's data protection authority is pressing Coupang to retract its independent probe results regarding a major data leak. The regulator labels these findings as unverified, highlighting concerns over public confusion and the need for improved response measures. Learn more about the implications of this investigation and its impact on users.
Key Takeaways
- The Personal Information Protection Commission demands the removal of Coupang's independent probe results.
- Coupang is under investigation for a data breach affecting 33.7 million customers.
- The regulator warns that Coupang's internal findings are unverified.
- Coupang has been criticized for its lack of cooperation with the investigation.
- Improved response measures for users have been suggested by the regulator.
Seoul, Jan 14 (NationPress) South Korea's data protection authority has called on online retailer Coupang to remove the findings from its independent investigation into a significant data breach affecting its mobile app and website, labeling them as unverified information.
The Personal Information Protection Commission raised concerns regarding Coupang's assertion that a former employee had compromised the personal information of 33 million users, while only retaining data from approximately 3,000 accounts, which Coupang contended was subsequently deleted.
Currently, Coupang is under scrutiny by authorities for the data breach, which the company initially reported in November, stating that it affected the personal details of 33.7 million customers, including their names, phone numbers, and delivery addresses.
The regulator emphasized that the company's internal findings could create public confusion as they have not been substantiated by an official inquiry, suggesting that the notice might interfere with the ongoing investigation.
Moreover, it pointed out that Coupang has been less than cooperative, stalling or neglecting to provide requested documents, which could be interpreted as attempts to obstruct the investigation, potentially leading to future penalties.
The commission also urged the company to enhance its response strategies to the data leak by incorporating a feature on its mobile app and website that allows users to check if their data has been compromised.
In a related note, the head of South Korea's antitrust authority mentioned that a temporary suspension of Coupang's business operations could be on the table, amid the ongoing investigation into the extensive data breach at the company listed in the U.S.
"If an order is disregarded or deemed inadequate in providing relief to affected consumers, a business suspension could follow," stated Ju Byung-gi, chairman of the Fair Trade Commission (FTC), during a radio interview.
Coupang released the findings of its internal investigation on December 25, asserting that a former employee had misappropriated personal information from 33.7 million user accounts, retaining data from only about 3,000 accounts, which it claimed was later purged.
Point of View
I believe that the regulator's actions highlight the ongoing struggle for consumer protection in the digital age. Coupang's challenges underscore the importance of verified information in maintaining public trust and the necessity for robust data protection measures.
NationPress
14/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Coupang's internal investigation find?
Coupang's internal investigation claimed that a former employee compromised the personal information of 33.7 million users but retained data from only about 3,000 accounts, which was reportedly deleted.
Why is the data protection authority concerned?
The authority is concerned because Coupang's findings are unverified and could create public confusion regarding the ongoing investigation.
What actions is the regulator considering?
The regulator is considering the removal of Coupang's findings and may even contemplate a temporary suspension of the company's business operations if necessary.
How many customers were affected by the data breach?
The data breach reportedly affected the personal information of 33.7 million customers.
What improvements has the regulator suggested for Coupang?
The regulator has suggested that Coupang enhance its response measures, including adding a feature for users to check if their data has been compromised.
