Hong Kong limits civil servants' use of messaging apps for security

In Hong Kong, the government has implemented a ban on the use of popular messaging and file-sharing applications, including WhatsApp, WeChat, and Google Drive, for most civil servants on their work computers. This decision stems from growing concerns regarding data security and the potential for sensitive information to be leaked or compromised by malware utilizing these platforms. The directive was issued by the Digital Policy Office and was announced during a radio program by Sun Dong, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, highlighting increasing hacking threats. Although civil servants may continue to use these applications on personal devices at work, they can only do so with prior approval from their managers. The move reflects a broader trend observed in various organizations where policies are becoming stricter in response to cybersecurity threats. Experts emphasize similar policies have been adopted by governments like those of the United States and China, underlining the severity of the situation. A representative from the Hong Kong Information Technology Federation indicated that the ban aims to close vulnerabilities that could be exploited through encrypted messages. The announcement comes after several data breaches in Hong Kong's government departments earlier in the year, which revealed personal information of thousands of individuals, escalating public concern. As government employees cite difficulties in conducting routine business with this new restriction, the balance between security measures and operational efficiency continues to raise questions, prompting discussions on necessary training and monitoring to enhance cybersecurity awareness among staff.