Man, 41, arrested for doxxing a person over monetary dispute

A 41-year-old man was arrested in New Territories today (Thu) by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) for disclosing personal data of the victim without his consent. 

Investigation revealed that the victim had a monetary dispute with a third party in 2020. Subsequently, a message containing personal data of the victim was posted on a personal account on social media in December 2022, demanding settlement of the outstanding loan. 

The personal data disclosed included the victim’s English name, mobile phone number, his photos and a copy his Hong Kong identity card, displaying his Chinese name, English name, HKID card number, date of birth, gender and photo. 

The man has been granted bail and the PCPD said it's continuing its investigation into the case. 

The PCPD reminded the public that disclosing or reposting copies of identity cards without the consent of the subject concerned, either arbitrarily or maliciously, may constitute as a doxxing offense. 

An offender is liable for a fine up to HK$1 million and imprisonment for five years.