As leaks of linked information (CI) used to identify individuals online continue, criticism has emerged that the system should be improved so users can request a change to their CI or stop its use. The Broadcast Media and Telecommunications Commission said it will review legal reforms, including a right to request renewal and ensuring user choice.

Kim Sun-min (김선민), a lawmaker from the Rebuilding Korea Party, raised CI leak 피해 and the limits of the current system at an audit of the National Assembly's Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee on Oct. 12. He urged Kim Jong-cheol (김종철), chair of the commission, to prepare measures.

CI is information used to identify users in online services and link user information across different services. Because multiple companies can use the same identifier, there are concerns that leaked data could be misused to connect and track personal information.

According to 자료 presented by Kim, 1.29 million people's CI was leaked at Lotte Card last year, and 13.24 million cases of CI were leaked at Tving this year. In the past year, 7 companies have had CI leak incidents.

Another problem raised was that even if CI is leaked, users find it difficult to request changes to it or demand that its use be stopped.

Kim disclosed cases in which some companies told users who asked for CI processing to be suspended to withdraw their membership, or processed withdrawals without separate consent. He said alternative procedures are needed for users who do not want their CI used.

"We are preparing legal and institutional improvements related to the linked information issue in a comprehensive way, and we will review such measures as well," Kim Jong-cheol said.

Kim said he understands the commission is considering a validity-period system under which CI is changed every 1 to 3 years. He stressed that, in addition to regular renewals, users should be guaranteed the right to request a CI change when needed.

Kim Jong-cheol replied, "We will do that," in response to calls to improve the system to ensure a right to request renewal and user choice.