According to a new law, the Hong Kong police can demand that you reveal the encryption keys protecting your computer, phone, hard drives, etc.—even if you are just transiting the airport.

In a security alert dated March 26, the U.S. Consulate General said that, on March 23, 2026, Hong Kong authorities changed the rules governing enforcement of the National Security Law. Under the revised framework, police can require individuals to provide passwords or other assistance to access personal electronic devices, including cellphones and laptops.

The consulate warned that refusal to comply is now a criminal offense. It also said authorities have expanded powers to take and keep personal electronic devices as evidence if they claim the devices are linked to national security offenses.

Tags: encryption, Hong Kong, passwords, police

Posted on April 7, 2026 at 5:45 AM • 1 Comments