Page 48 - JDPA Volume 02, Issue 02

Journal of Defence & Policy Analysis Volume 02, Issue 02, December 2023

TRUTH UNDER ATTACK

Isura Silva
Business Consultant on Digital
Transformation

Introduction

In an interconnected world where digital security is paramount, understanding
the nuances of social engineering and its implications on personal data protec-
tion is essential. Individuals often withhold the truth to avoid conflicts, manage
priorities, or maintain relationships, inadvertently creating vulnerabilities. So-
phisticated social engineering techniques exploit these human tendencies, pos-
ing significant threats to personal data security. For instance, malicious actors
can manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information, such as Nation-
al Identity Card numbers via One-Time Passwords, to create unauthorized digital
wallets.

Understanding the real threat

Individuals may refrain from expressing the truth for various reasons, such as a
desire to avoid unnecessary conflicts, prioritize more pressing matters, or preserve
amicable relationships. Additionally, the apprehension of potential negative per-
ceptions can dissuade individuals from truthfully conveying information, even
though honesty might inadvertently cast them in an unfavourable light.

The rise of sophisticated social engineering techniques poses a significant threat
to personal data security. Malicious actors can leverage human vulnerabilities
to obtain critical information, such as National Identity Card numbers through
One-Time Passwords, enabling them to create unauthorized digital wallets in
various banking institutions. This highlights the need for robust security mea-
sures and increased awareness of such manipulative tactics to protect sensitive
financial data from unauthorized access.

The possibility of mobile SIM card duplication in Sri Lanka has generated
considerable confusion, fueled in part by viral podcasts claiming its feasibil-
ity. However, it is crucial to dispel this disinformation. Firstly, replicating SIM
cards in Sri Lanka, in the sense of creating an unauthorized functional copy, is

Faculty of Defence and Strategic Studies, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka
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