Press Release

Loss of USB flash drive held by Correctional Services Department

     The Correctional Services Department (CSD) said today (June 11) that a USB flash drive with encryption function for official use was reported missing by a Principal Officer. The USB flash drive reportedly contained some video recordings of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Systems used for internal investigation and training purposes, staff appraisal reports and investigation reports. Some of the information were found circulating in the social media on the Internet.

     CSD has appointed a task force chaired by an Assistant Commissioner to conduct an investigation into the matter with a view to ascertaining the nature of the incident and the actual situation of the case. In the meantime, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data and relevant departments have been notified of the incident in accordance with the established procedural guidelines. In addition, the case has been referred to the Police for enquiry. The task force will review relevant guidelines governing the use of USB flash drive by CSD staff and find out if any negligence is involved in order to prevent similar recurrence.

     A spokesman for the CSD said, "The CSD attaches great importance to security of personal data, and has laid down clear internal guidelines and control mechanism to ensure that personal data is kept in compliance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance and other relevant laws and ordinances. Staff members are also regularly reminded to abide by the relevant guidelines and provisions and the requirement of encrypting official documents."

Ends/Saturday, June 11, 2016
Issued at HKT 19:33