Cyber Security Exercise SWORDLIFTER held by Hong Kong Police Force in preparation for National Games (with photos)
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     The Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) of the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) conducted the Cyber Security Seminar cum Tabletop Exercise, codenamed SWORDLIFTER, at the Police Headquarters today (September 9). The event aimed to enhance cyber resilience, incident reporting co-ordination and immediate response capabilities of relevant stakeholders in preparation for the 15th National Games (NG), the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG).

     Speaking at the seminar, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Crime), Ms Chung Wing-man, stated that the co-hosting of the 15th NG, the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao carries great significance. As one of the host cities, Hong Kong shoulders the responsibilities and has the capability to strengthen its cybersecurity defenses, ensuring that the Games can be carried out in a safe, orderly and secure manner.

     The seminar focused on the cyber threats faced and deployment strategies adopted during major sporting events in the past. Industry leaders were invited to share local and overseas case studies and best practices. Topics covered prevention of phishing and counterfeit tickets websites, website security, system intrusion protection and social media account security, in order to enhance the cybersecurity awareness of stakeholders.

     The tabletop exercise adopted an integrated scenario simulating pre-event situations where the organiser and relevant stakeholders received malicious and false information, their official websites or related pages were hijacked, and critical infrastructures faced cyberattacks, etc. During the exercise, participants conducted incident analysis, multi-agency reporting and recovery operations, with a view to better understanding the potential impacts of different cyberattacks and corresponding response processes.

     Joined by more than 100 representatives from over 30 departments, units and organisations, including the National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong), venue operators, various government departments, transportation and public organisations, as well as relevant sports associations, the event concluded successfully and affirmed the importance of cross-sector collaboration.

     HKPF will maintain close liaison with all stakeholders to ensure thorough preparations for the upcoming 15th NG and the smooth running of the events.

Ends/Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Issued at HKT 20:33

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