“Lace loken?”
Maybe Grandma finds the name a tongue twister. Or maybe Grandpa suspects it’s used to open the boot of a car.
But you know better. Because after reading this, you’ll be able to explain to your grandparents what a TraceTogether Token does and what it’s for, and help keep them safe from the Covid-19 coronavirus.
Now that we have finally moved into Phase 3, and the authorities have met the target of 70 per cent of Singapore residents using the TraceTogether app or token, here are a few things you need to know.
Let’s Get Started
The Token is a physical device that exchanges Bluetooth signals with other Tokens or Apps nearby to aid digital contact tracing efforts.
When you collect it, the Token is activated and registered in the user’s name. Then just take it along with you whenever you leave your house.
Like the App on one’s handphone, it only captures proximity data via Bluetooth technology. The encrypted info is kept on the device until the user consents to share it with the Ministry of Health.
Do I Need To Use Both The App And Token? What’s The Difference?
If you are already using the App – for example, keeping the App open in the background and keeping the Bluetooth on – you do not need the Token. You only need one to get notified quickly if you’ve been a close contact of a Covid-19 case.
Use It For SafeEntry Check-ins
The list of major public places accepting its usage is at go.gov.sg/token-venues (non-exhaustive) and will be updated over time.
For places without QR code scanners, you can check in either by scanning the SafeEntry QR code using your phone, or by presenting your NRIC.
However, the use of TraceTogether for SafeEntry will not be made mandatory until everyone has had the chance to collect the token or download the app.
It’s Like Something Out Of The Mandalorian
It looks sci-fi, and once your Token’s QR code is scanned, it summons a squad of Dark Troopers.
Just kidding. Once done, you can proceed into the major public place. No more fussing over your handphone to get the App ready to scan.
Yes, Your Data Is Protected
From the info retrieved, they won’t know where you’ve been. The data will never be accessed unless the user tests positive for Covid-19 and is contacted by the contact tracing team. The data stored on your device is automatically deleted after 25 days.
But Police Are Allowed To Access The Data…
under the Criminal Procedure Code, which allows them to obtain it for criminal investigations.
While stringent measures are in place to safeguard the personal data gathered, only authorised officers are allowed to do so. A new Bill was introduced in Parliament on 1 February, formally restricting the use of personal contact tracing data in police investigations to serious offences including offences related to terrorism, drug trafficking and murder.
However, You Can Request Your Data To Be Deleted
App and Token users can request their data be deleted from the servers. App users need to email support@tracetogether.gov.sg with the mobile number that was used to register.
Token users will have to return it. Instructions on how to return will be given after the user emails the last four characters of his NRIC/FIN/Passport number to the above-mentioned email.
Do take note that you may have limited access to selected venues without the App or Token in the future.
It’s The Size Of A 9-volt Battery
The Token is designed to be convenient and easy to use, and can be easily attached to a lanyard. It’s light and has a life span of six to nine months.
When it’s functioning properly, the green light blinks once a minute. But if you see a red blinking light, this means it’s not working or has low battery. Call the service hotline at 6973 6511 or email support@tracetogether.gov.sg for the latest information on service assistance.
So Why Is There A Need For A Token?
While it’s easy for the Average Joe or Jane who is IT-savvy nowadays, others like the elderly may not be as nimble with their devices. The Token is extremely user-friendly. It’s also designed for those who may not own or prefer not to use a mobile phone.
SAFRA has adopted the use of the TraceTogether Token at all of its clubhouses from January 2021.
Images: The Straits Times
