After numerous reports of Hong Kong pro-democracy activists being rejected at the border – including when three leaders of Hong Kong Federation of Students were denied in their attempt to board a flight to Beijing – rumours abounded that the government has been sending information about activists to the mainland, allowing them to be rejected at the border.
But Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok has rejected such claims, saying the accusations are unfounded and malicious slander.
Lai maintained that Hong Kong and the mainland have their own immigration policies that are implemented and enforced independently.
He added that with the extensive media coverage of the protests, many protesters’ quotes, names and photos have been published. In addition, many demonstrators’ posts to social media are also freely visible online, implying that mainland immigration authorities may have gotten their information through less surreptitious means, like their Twitter or Facebook feeds.
Lai re-emphasised that the Hong Kong government does not pass along personal data, stating that such information is protected by the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.
Maybe it’s time to check your social media privacy settings again.
Photo: Takuki via Flickr
