Media Statements

In light of the huge amount of personal data of individuals with different political opinions being publicly disclosed for doxxing at online social platforms and instant messaging platforms, the office of the Privacy Commissioner of Personal Data, Hong Kong (PCPD) finds that among those affected individuals, the proportion of people other than police officers (including protesters, etc.) is on the rise. The Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Hong Kong (Privacy Commissioner) Mr Stephen Kai-yi WONG reiterates that the PCPD has, as always, enforced the law in a fair and just manner under the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (the Ordinance), regardless of the occupation, political opinion and identity of the affected parties, and followed up on every single case impartially.

 

In an interview with an international media agency today, Mr Wong mentioned in particular recent cases in which a number of protesters’ personal data were published and circulated on the Internet. He once again seriously warns that the persons committing such acts may commit the criminal offence under section 64 of the Ordinance. The maximum fine is HK$1,000,000 and imprisonment for 5 years. It may also involve other civil and criminal liabilities. In connection with the alleged violation of the provision and other criminal offences, including criminal intimidation, the Police has already started making arrests. The PCPD also strongly appeals to netizens not to commit those criminal offences. They should stop uploading or forwarding relevant personal data and offensive remarks, and should not incite doxxing and bullying.

 

PCPD’s follow-up actions

 

From 14 June to today (30 August, 5:00pm), the PCPD received and proactively found 841 cases of suspected disclosure of personal data of government officials, public figures, police officers, citizens and their family members, and protesters, etc. at online discussion forums or instant messaging platforms.  The last two days have seen a decrease in the proportion of police officers being doxxed (from 72% on 28 August to 59% today) and an increase in the proportion of others (including protesters, citizens and their family members) being doxxed (from 28% on 28 August to 41% today).  Personal data such as name, address, telephone number, photo, academic qualification, date of birth, identity card number, etc. was disclosed, with derogatory or abusive comments for the purposes of ostracising, intimidating and hurting the data subjects.

 

Privacy Commissioner Mr Stephen Wong strongly condemns all acts of infringement of personal data privacy, online doxxing and cyberbullying.  He reiterates that the PCPD will continue to enforce the law fairly, and handle all cases impartially and strictly, regardless of the complainants’ or victims’ position, occupation and political opinion.  

 

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