Hong Kong Requires Passwords; China Summons US Consul Over Security Alert

Hong Kong revised its National Security Ordinance to mandate surrendering device passwords, punishable by up to one year in prison.

““Hong Kong government also has more authority to take and keep any personal devices, as evidence, that they claim are linked to national security offenses”

Bloomberg

The amendments also granted police powers to demand information from organizations deemed foreign political entities.

Global Times

The U.S. Consulate issued a security alert warning the law applies to everyone, including American transiting through the airport.

China summoned the U.S. Consul General, expressing strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition.

The Hong Kong office of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused the U.S. of interfering in internal affairs.

Global Times

The diplomatic tensions highlight how the security law's expansive powers have triggered international fallout.

Urania Chiu warned the new provisions interfere with fundamental liberties including privacy and right to fair trial.

“Commissioner’s Office of China's Foreign Ministry in HKSAR lodges solemn representations with US over interference [](https://subscribe”

Global Times

The amendments empower police to require suspects to provide passwords without judicial authorization.

Critics argue the powers are grossly disproportionate to any legitimate aim.

The U.S. security alert marked an unusual escalation in diplomatic tensions.

The password surrender mandate extends beyond residents to visitors and transiting travelers.

Nyuz Room

Non-Western outlets emphasized the retaliatory nature of China summoning the U.S. Consul.