What Hong Kong's new 'laptops & phone password' law means for tourists and travellers

2026-03-27 - 04:40

Hong Kong police can now demand phone and laptop passwords without a warrant, with refusal a criminal offense carrying jail time and hefty fines. These new amendments, bypassing the legislature, expand police powers significantly. Critics decry the move as a severe blow to privacy and fair trial rights, further tightening Beijing's grip on the city's once-open society.