Hong Kong Police Can Force You to Reveal Your Encryption Keys
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.
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Paul • April 7, 2026 6:18 AM
As a Hong Kong resident, I should point out that this report was a bit over-sensationalised. The police need a warrant from a court in order to require access to a device, and to obtain such a warrant they need to demonstrate a “national security” reason.
I don’t see this situation as being much different in reality from the situation in other countries – the police and border forces of the UK and New Zealand, for example, have very similar powers. And so does the USA for that matter, where as I understand it, the EFF’s advice is only to bring empty or burner devices across the US border.