Google, Facebook, etc. “express concern over Hong Kong’s privacy law”

The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), which includes Facebook, Google and Twitter, has expressed concerns about the Hong Kong government’s current privacy law amendments.

In response to the National Security Law enacted in July 2020 over Hong Kong, Google announced that it did not meet the data submission requirements from the Hong Kong authorities. This privacy law also stems from the pro-democracy protests that intensified in 2019. In this activity, the act of doxxing has changed a lot, such as images of police wielding excessive violence being posted on social media or leaking personal information. What is under review is to make it illegal by amending the Personal Information Protection Act and strengthen the crackdown.

As for the content, it is quite natural that if you expose other people’s photos and personal information taken in public for the purpose of intimidating, intimidating, harassing or causing psychological harm, a fine of up to HK$1 million and up to five years in prison are imposed. However, prompt responses such as data deletion are required not only for the users who uploaded it, but also for the platform companies.

In response, AIC states that there is an ambiguity in the interpretation of the act of stealing personal information, and there is a risk that the platform company or its employees may be unfairly questioned for legal responsibility. The removal of content is likely to be a risk to freedom of expression and communication, and the only way tech companies can avoid sanctions is to refrain from investing in Hong Kong and providing services.

However, the AIC is not entirely against the amendment of the Privacy Act. It has also proposed the amendment and is requesting a videoconference with the Hong Kong authorities according to the content. Amendments to the Hong Kong Privacy Act are expected to be approved by the end of this year’s session. As the bill is approved without amendment, it is unlikely that Google and others will actually withdraw from Hong Kong, but it is worth paying attention to the trend going forward. Related information can be found here.