Weisenhaus warns of dangers to online speech of using HK’s computer crime laws

Nov 21, 2014

by Doreen Weisenhaus with contributions by Rick Glofcheski and Yan Mei Ning (Expanded Second Edition, Hong Kong University Press 2014)


Optimized-IMG_2066 2The recent arrests of individuals involved in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong for violation of Section 161 of the Crimes Ordinance that targets computer crime offences are raising concern over freedom of expression. In an October 27, 2014 article in Quartz (qz.com), Associate Professor Doreen Weisenhaus is quoted as expressing concern over “whether there is an increased willingness for Hong Kong authorities to extend the law’s reach and, in doing so, whether they are joining a growing trend, particularly in Asia, to use general cyber crime laws to target online speech and other activities.” In November, Legislative Council member Charles Mok asked the Hong Kong government for a review of its use of these offences.