New National Security Rules Empower HK Police to Access Phone Passwords

Mon Mar 23 2026 12:41:33 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hong Kong's police force has gained new powers to demand passwords for phones and computers from individuals suspected of violating the National Security Law, raising concerns over privacy and dissent.

Under newly amended national security regulations, Hong Kong police can now compel suspected individuals to hand over passwords for their electronic devices. Failure to comply can lead to significant fines and imprisonment. These amendments, viewed as a tool to suppress dissent, have sparked widespread criticism amidst ongoing tensions over individual freedoms and security.

Hong Kong police can now demand phone or computer passwords from those who are suspected of breaching the wide-ranging National Security Law (NSL).

Those who refuse could face up to a year in jail and a fine of up to HK$100,000 ($12,700; £9,600). Individuals providing false or misleading information may face up to three years behind bars.

This change is part of recent amendments to a bylaw under the NSL, which was launched in 2020 following significant pro-democracy protests. Authorities assert that the laws, targeting actions such as terrorism and secession, are necessary for maintaining stability; however, critics argue they serve to stifle dissent.

The amendments provide customs officials the authority to seize items considered to have seditious intentions. Hong Kong officials state these changes are intended to ensure effective prevention and punishment of activities deemed to jeopardize national security while protecting lawful rights of individuals and organizations.

John Lee, the city's leader, announced these adjustments, bypassing the legislative council. While law enforcement globally possesses the ability to require access to electronic devices during investigations, the NSL encompasses a broad array of vaguely defined offenses, including secession and subversion.

The NSL permits certain trials to be conducted behind closed doors and has led to numerous arrests of protesters, activists, and former opposition lawmakers since its introduction. Notably, media tycoon Jimmy Lai was handed a 20-year sentence for foreign collusion and publishing seditious material under the NSL.

These developments continue to spotlight ongoing debates around civil liberties in Hong Kong amid tightening government control.

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