Hong Kong's privacy office has 85 complaints about three company data breaches, and some scam victims lost more than HK$100,000.
Hong Kong's privacy watchdog has received 85 inquiries and complaints about data breaches at Hong Kong Airlines, YOHO and Broadway Photo Supply. Some customers say scam calls came shortly after they bought something online. Some victims lost more than HK$100,000.
Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data Ada Chung Lai-ling spoke on a radio program on Thursday. She said her office has opened formal investigations. The companies are reviewing the breaches internally, but have not yet given the watchdog some details. She urged them to tell affected customers as soon as possible.
Chung warned people to be especially wary of callers who say they are customer service and offer a refund. Her advice for anyone who gets such a call:
It is not yet clear how many customers are affected, what information was taken or when the breaches happened. The companies have not given the watchdog some details, and Chung urged them to notify customers quickly, so it is unclear how many people have been told. The formal investigations are still under way.
If a caller offers a refund, hang up and reach the company yourself through its official website or hotline.
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