Privacy chief backs tighter land-search rules

Ada Chung, the Privacy Commissioner, has voiced her backing for government efforts to tighten land record search procedures, while expressing worry that misuse of land registry data may be escalating. The government recently submitted eight pieces of subsidiary legislation to the Legislative Council to implement these changes. Under the new regulations, land searches must align with one of nine predetermined purposes.

Speaking to RTHK, Chung emphasized the importance of these purposes being clear and well-defined, so that searchers can adhere to their declared purpose and avoid unintended misuse of the information. Over the past five years, her office has received 20 complaints regarding alleged misuse of land registry data, including instances where property owners were targeted on social media and subjected to promotional mail.

Six of those complaints were filed this year alone, according to Chung. She has witnessed cases where land registry data has been used for purposes beyond its intended use, such as cyberbullying and doxxing. Notably, none of these cases should occur, and six such incidents were reported this year, indicating a worsening trend, according to Chung.

The new land search rules are intended to enhance system clarity, better safeguard property owners' privacy, and help individuals avoid potential legal repercussions. Chung noted that the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance's exemption for journalistic activities also requires a public-interest basis, which aligns with the purpose of the new regulations.