Hong Kong privacy complaints jump 62% on AI data use

Hong Kong’s privacy regulator reported a sharp increase in public complaints in the first half of the year, with officials linking the rise to expanding data processing associated with artificial intelligence.

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data said it received 2,990 complaints over the six-month period. That was 62 percent higher than in the same period last year, according to figures the watchdog released on Saturday.

AI adoption cited in complaint surge Privacy Commissioner AI adoption cited in complaint surge Privacy Commissioner Ada Chung Lai-ling said the growing Privacy Commissioner Ada Chung Lai-ling said the growing use of artificial intelligence has contributed to the higher number of complaints. In comments made during a local radio broadcast, Chung described consumer information as being collected, processed, and used at scale, and said this has been associated with more disputes tied to online activity. Chung also pointed to another factor behind the increase: stronger public awareness of privacy rights and data protection. She said more people are now willing to report concerns when they believe their personal data has been mishandled. Officials presented the jump as reflecting both a technology-driven shift in how data is handled and a behavioural change in how residents respond when they see potential problems.

Information technology sector leads by case volume

Hong Kong By sector, the information technology industry accounted for the largest share of disputes in the first half, with 867 cases, officials said. The concentration in that category highlights the extent to which digital platforms, online services, and other data-heavy tools sit at the centre of everyday consumer activity. The watchdog did not provide additional detail on the figures cited, but officials said the prominence of the information technology sector underlines how privacy disputes increasingly emerge in online settings, where information can be captured and repurposed quickly. Officials warn personal data is a tradeable commodity Authorities described consumer information as a highly sought-after and tradeable commodity in today’s technology sector. Chung urged residents to be extremely cautious when providing personal details, especially in common situations such as online shopping or joining membership programmes. Her message focused on limiting exposure at the Her message focused on limiting exposure at the point where information is collected. She encouraged consumers to reduce the amount of personal data they provide when it is not strictly necessary, positioning that approach as a practical step in response to changing digital practices.

Unclear outcomes for reported cases

While the complaint totals point to heightened concern, the disclosure did not indicate how many cases are ultimately substantiated, settled informally, or move into further processes. Officials linked the overall trend to scaled-up data use and greater willingness to report, suggesting the reporting environment is evolving alongside fast-changing technology.