Instant messaging has been around nearly as long as the internet, evolving into a communication tool nearly all of us rely on. Unfortunately, widespread use of apps as well as other services such as cloud storage has opened new doors to bad actors.
So, it is sensible that Hong Kong authorities take steps to restrict civil servants from using unauthorised messaging and cloud storage services on their work computers.
However, the move should come with efficient safer alternatives so the city may continue to keep pace and in touch with an increasingly digital world.
Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong has outlined “strict regulations” authorities soon want in place to counter “severe internet safety risks” of software such as WhatsApp, WeChat and Google Drive.
Sun said the rules applying to desktop machines were similar to those imposed elsewhere, including on the mainland and in the United States. He acknowledged “hacking has become more severe” and the government “faces many challenges”.
Authorities have reported a series of data breaches that resulted in the personal information of residents being leaked. Two departments, the Companies Registry and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, reported breaches within two days of each other.
