Data HkWatter It is essential that companies understand their responsibilities when it comes to data use. They should carefully consider the licenses, formats and quality of any datasets they download as well as any syntactic or semantic transformations necessary in order to process and interpret it correctly and understand its context.
The PDPO applies to data users who control the collection, holding, processing and/or use of personal data in any part of its life cycle, even if these activities take place outside Hong Kong. This includes users who transfer personal data overseas for processing activities or hire agents and contractors as data processors; under DPP2 and DPP4, such data users are held liable for actions of these agents and contractors who process this data on their behalf.
Direct marketing practices remain one of the primary areas for investigation and prosecution by the Privacy Commissioner, although enforcement activity may decline due to increased awareness among data users. According to PDPO definition, direct marketing is defined as using personal data for sending unsolicited communications without consent, including emails, texts and telephone calls.
As the government contemplates revamping data protection laws, businesses should ensure they are complying with current requirements and any future obligations. This is particularly crucial for firms which use technologies to learn about individuals’ behaviors or process personal data to influence individuals’ decisions; such firms should take special care in adhering to PDPO principles in their processes.