Hong Kong’s proposed anti-doxxing law far too broad and vague, critics argue
- The bill opens the door to arbitrary accusations and has left internet service providers unsure of how to comply, legal and industry experts say
- But supporters of the legislation say it gives much-needed powers to the privacy chief and the burden of proof to convict is high
A day after details of the bill were made public, critics cautioned against forging ahead with what could be one of the toughest anti-doxxing laws in the world.
Critics on Thursday urged authorities to ensure the new law would not be used to protect the powerful and victimise specific groups such as journalists in an increasingly politicised and polarised environment.
The reach of the law remains long and wide, according to Paul Haswell, the head of the technology, media and telecoms practice at global law firm Pinsent Masons.
“Hong Kong has some of the harshest penalties for doxxing in the world, with custodial sentences for those who engage in doxxing even if no harm is actually caused,” Haswell said, assuming the bill would be passed.
“It is also extraterritorial, giving the privacy commissioner the power to issue a notice to remove content, or block access to that content, anywhere in the world.”
