KCDO receives report of suspected hacking into instant messaging application account of Sub-district Care Team
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The operating organisation of the Sheung Lok Sub-district Care Team (i.e. Homantin Residents Association) reported to the KCDO yesterday evening that the instant messaging application account of Sheung Lok Sub-district Care Team was suspected to have been hacked. The incident may have resulted in the leakage of personal data, including names, telephone numbers, and addresses, of 23 service users, among whom seven individuals' full or partial Hong Kong Identity Card numbers may have been exposed.
Regarding this incident, apart from informing affected service users immediately and reminding them to be vigilant, the operating organisation has also reported to the Police and notified the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data. The operating organisation is reviewing and will further strengthen its security measures. If anyone suspects a person impersonating a member of the Sheung Lok Sub-district Care Team, they may contact the Sheung Lok Sub-district Care Team, the KCDO or call 182 111 to verify the person's identity. In case of suspicious circumstances, please call the 24-hour Anti-Scam Helpline 18222.
The KCDO apologises to the persons affected for any inconvenience caused and has set up a hotline (2712 9182) for enquiries. Members of the public may also visit the Care Teams' dedicated webpage (www.had.gov.hk/en/public_services/district_services_community_care_teams/fraud_prevention.htm) to learn about the anti-fraud measures. Care Teams will never ask members of the public for bank account numbers. Members and volunteers of Care Teams will wear Care Team uniforms and display Care Team member or Volunteer Certificates of Identity for identification when providing caring services. The KCDO has issued a letter to the Care Team concerned regarding the incident, requesting the Care Team for heightened vigilance and strengthened security measures and to continue to handle and keep personal data confidential strictly according to the guidelines. The Home Affairs Department has also reminded all Care Teams accordingly.
Ends/Thursday, February 5, 2026
Issued at HKT 22:20
Issued at HKT 22:20
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