HK can protect itself from online marauders: minister

The innovation and technology chief on Thursday reassured the public that Hong Kong has the capacity to handle cybersecurity threats. Sun Dong was speaking after a string of recent ransomware attacks on government departments and public bodies, with some leading to data leaks. In an interview with RTHK marking two years of this administration, Sun said government bureaus and departments will be asked to conduct regular inspection to guard against hackers. Sun also noted that the problem was not confined to the SAR, but was a problem globally. "The number of cyberattacks has been trending upwards. Judging from the data, the attacks are mainly from outside Hong Kong," Sun said. "Of course, this is also a global trend, so we must strengthen our monitoring work in this regard. Generally speaking, Hong Kong's cybersecurity is still under control." In the same interview, the minister commented on a Legislative Council panel meeting, where he became visibly emotional while thanking lawmakers for their support for the government's innovation and technology initiatives. "Lawmakers always ask tough questions, but in the end, everyone gave their full support. I was moved by the Legislative Council's unconditional support - not just to me but also to the entire development of innovation and technology," Sun said. "So in the end, I got a bit emotional."