PCPD arrests man for allegedly doxxing friend on social media

Hong Kong's privacy watchdog has arrested a 36-year-old man for allegedly disclosing the personal data of his friend without consent. According to the press release by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD), this was in contravention of section 64(3A) of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO).Currently, a person who commits an offence under section 64(3A) is liable on conviction to a fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for two years.

In July 2022, three messages containing the personal data of the victim were posted in an open discussion group of a social media platform, alongside some negative comments on the victim. The personal data disclosed included the victim’s Chinese name, English surname, alias, age, mobile phone number, names of residential estate and building, name of secondary school, name of her former employer, her previous jobs and a screenshot of the victim’s profile on a social media platform depicting her face. The watchdog added that while the arrested person is granted bail, it would continue its investigation on the case.

The PCPD reminds the public that they should not dox others because of personal disputes. “Doxxing is not a means to resolve disputes as it would only escalate conflict. Moreover, doxxing is a serious offence and the offender is liable on conviction to a fine up to HK$1,000,000 and imprisonment for five years,” the statement reads. 

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Back in July last year, the watchdog arrested a Chinese female aged 35 in New Territories East. She was suspected to have disclosed the personal data of a complainant without her consent, in contravention of section 64(3A) of the PDPO.

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