CCTV can fight crime but caution needed to ease privacy concerns in Hong Kong
- Care, detailed legislation and regulation are required when employing technology that may prove effective in catching criminals
The use of CCTV cameras to combat crime in Hong Kong has long been controversial. A police proposal for a pilot scheme in 2002 prompted the city’s privacy watchdog to note “the considerable concern from various sectors of the community”. But the use of such cameras has since grown dramatically around the world. It is not, therefore, surprising that there are plans to expand Hong Kong’s surveillance system.
Last month, Deputy Chief Secretary Warner Cheuk Wing-hing revealed an intention to install 2,000 CCTV cameras in densely populated areas and crime hotspots. Since then, Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee has said 615 will be in place next month and the rest by the end of the year. Significantly, the use of facial recognition has not been ruled out.
The police are still working out the circumstances in which such technology would be used. Siu highlighted the use of it elsewhere. Britain has 7.3 million surveillance cameras and Singapore 90,000.
There is no doubting the value of CCTV in identifying suspects and catching wanted criminals. London’s Metropolitan police have described facial recognition as a “vital tool” in tackling crime. It has, in the UK, been used to apprehend criminals including a murderer and sex offenders. The mainland, meanwhile, makes extensive use of such techniques. No official figures have been provided for the number of CCTV cameras in Hong Kong. There are probably more than most people imagine. A study last year, looking at their use globally, estimated the city has more than 50,000. They are used by several government departments as well as in the private sector.
Hong Kong police chief Raymond Siu backs plan to install 2,000 CCTV cameras
The use of such cameras and facial-recognition systems raises valid concerns about intrusions into privacy. There is a need for detailed legislation and regulation.
Guidelines on CCTV issued by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner say it must be “properly controlled”. Such technology must be used responsibly and transparently. Consideration must be given to whether less intrusive methods can achieve the same results.
The use of a facial-recognition system requires a “strong justification” and hidden cameras must be viewed as a last resort. Rigorous steps are needed to ensure data is kept for no longer than needed. Safeguards are also needed to prevent data being stolen or leaked.
As promised, the police should consult thoroughly with the privacy commissioner before rolling out their plans and ensure the public is provided with full details of the system. Transparency is key.
The technology will help fight crime, but must be rolled out with care and caution to ensure the right balance is struck with the protection of privacy.
