Facebook, Whatsapp to halt process request for user data of Hong Kong residents

Social media giant Facebook and instant messaging app WhatsApp have revealed that y have ‘paused’ responding to government requests about user data in Hong Kong. Whatsapp has claimed that it is reviewing full extent of new national security law while its parent company has cited freedom of expression as a reason.

Facebook: Freedom of expression a fundamental right

According to reports, a spokesperson from Facebook has stated that company believes that freedom of expression and its exercise without fear of reprisal are fundamental right that must be protected. spokesperson furr added that Facebook has its own process of responding to government requests after taking into account several factors such as its own policies, local law and international Human Rights standards.

Unlike mainland China where a major social app like Facebook, Twitter and Google are banned, Hong Kong has enjoyed unrestricted access to se sites. decision for Facebook and WhatsApp to suspend processing of requests could mean serious consequences and a possible reaction by Chinese government.

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newly passed National Security Law has pushed Hong Kong down a more authoritarian path. Unlike Facebook and or companies, Apple has reportedly been on or side of divide due to large user base company has in mainland China.

Bail denied under new security law

As per reports, less than 24 hours after new security law was imposed in Hong Kong, a video showing 23-year-old Tong Ying-kit kcking over several policemen with his bike surfaced online. Hong Kong authorities have asserted that slogans such as ‘Liberate Hong Kong’ fall under guise of subversion and separatism under new securities law.

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Chief Magistrate So Wai-tak, as per reports, denied young protestor bail citing Article 42 of new law which states that accused will t be granted bail if judge believes accused will continue subversive activities and threaten national security upon release. case has been adjourned by Hong Kong court till October 6 and Tong has been placed under police custody.

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