The Federal Government’s phone book of all Australian telephone numbers could include users’ social networking details in the future, depending on the outcome of a review of the Integrated Public Number Database (IPND).
The IPND covers all Australian telephone numbers and subscriber information. Its basic functions include determining callers’ locations when they dial triple-zero and assisting law enforcement agencies in their investigations. It also is used to publish telephone books and provide directory assistance, although access to certain information in these instances is reduced.
The Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy has recognised that the IPND is in need of a review due to developments in the telecommunication industry since the database was first established in 1998. Consequently, it has released a discussion paper (PDF) inviting community comment on how the IPND should be improved.
One of the topics for discussion is the prevalence of social media and other internet-based services, and whether it should be included as part of the IPND — via redwolf.newsvine.com
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