Virtual Private Network Tokens and Info-communications Equipment Reported Lost or Stolen by Ministries and Government Agencies in Past Five Years

Mr Png Eng Huat asked the Prime Minister in the past five years (a) how many virtual private network tokens and info-communications equipment have been reported lost or stolen by the various Ministries and Government agencies annually; (b) how many police reports have been made; and (c) whether there have been unauthorised accesses or attempts made resulting from the loss of such security devices.

Central tracking of lost ICT equipment was implemented from 2017 onwards, with GovTech's formation in late 2016. From 2017 to 2019, there was an average of 182 reports of lost ICT equipment per year, including Public Service access cards, laptops and about 55 virtual private network (or VPN) tokens. There are over 140,000 public service officers, most of whom are issued ICT equipment for work.

All cases are reported to the Police. User account and VPN access are disabled once the ICT equipment is lost. Data in Government laptops, thumb drives and portable hard disks are also encrypted while tablets and mobile devices are password protected to prevent unauthorised access. There has been no known unauthorised access to Government systems arising from the loss of ICT equipment.