HK police can now demand phone passwords under new national security rules
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Hong Kong police can now demand phone and computer passwords from individuals suspected of violating the National Security Law (NSL), enacted in 2020. Amendments to an NSL bylaw, gazetted on Monday, stipulate that refusal to comply can result in up to a year in jail and a fine of HK$100,000. Providing false information carries a potential three-year prison sentence. Customs officials also gain the power to seize items deemed to have seditious intent. Hong Kong authorities claim the amendments are necessary to prevent activities endangering national security. Critics contend the NSL, which targets vaguely defined offenses, is used to suppress dissent, citing numerous arrests of protesters and activists since its implementation.
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AI-ExtractedThe new amendments also give customs officials the power to seize items that they deem to 'have seditious intention'.
Monday's amendments ensure that 'activities endangering national security can be effectively prevented, suppressed and punished...'
The NSL was introduced in Hong Kong in 2020.
Those who refuse to provide their phone passwords could face up to a year in jail and a fine of up to HK$100,000.
Hong Kong police can now demand phone or computer passwords from those suspected of breaching the National Security Law (NSL).
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