Hong Kong eyes secure storage of ride-hailing data for national security

Hong Kong transport authorities will “actively explore” the secure storage of ride-hailing data ahead of new regulations for the industry due to take effect in August, as part of efforts to ensure compliance with national security.

Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan on Monday stopped short of revealing whether data about users collected by ride-hailing platforms in Hong Kong would be required to be kept in the city, but stressed the importance of privacy and security.

“Our principle and emphasis are on the protection of data safety and national security. The storage, transfer, and backup of data have to be conducted securely,” she told lawmakers at a Legislative Council panel meeting on the new regulations, adding that the issue would be handled seriously.

Deputy Secretary for Transport and Logistics Kirk Yip Hoi-ying said the regulation included clauses related to protecting national security in licences for ride-hailing platforms.

He said that given the volume of personal data involved, operators must “strictly adhere to privacy regulations”.

“The clauses will stipulate that personal data collected can only be used for providing ride-hailing services and [ride-hailing platforms] would have to acquire their clients’ approval first,” he said, adding that authorities would explore the safest and most appropriate data storage arrangements.