HK privacy watchdog releases first set of AI data protection guidelines

Hong Kong’s privacy watchdog has released the city’s first set of personal data protection guidelines for companies using generative AI services, so that organisations can harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding personal data privacy.

The latest “Artificial Intelligence: Model Personal Data Protection Framework", released by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD), aims to help nurture the healthy development of AI in Hong Kong, facilitate Hong Kong’s development into an innovation and technology hub.

It also aims to propel the expansion of the digital economy not only in Hong Kong but also in the Greater Bay Area, according to Ada Chung (pictured), The Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (Privacy Commissioner).

According to the framework, companies using generative AI solutions should formulate the organisation’s AI strategy and governance considerations for procuring AI solutions, establish an AI governance committee (or similar body) and provide employees with training relevant to AI.

They should also conduct comprehensive risk assessments, formulate a risk management system, adopt a “risk-based” management approach, and, depending on the levels of the risks posed by AI, adopt proportionate risk mitigating measures, including deciding on the level of human oversight.

Other measures include customisation of AI models and implementation and management of AI systems; communication and engagement with stakeholders

Chung added, "AI security is one of the major fields of national security. The PCPD published the the model framework to provide internationally well-recognised and practical recommendations and best practices to assist organisations to procure, implement and use AI, including generative AI, in compliance with the relevant requirements of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO), so that organisations can harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding personal data privacy."

William Wong, member of the PCPD’s standing committee on technological developments and legislative council member, said ““This is an opportune moment for the PCPD to publish the framework, as our Motherland is currently focusing on the pursuit of new quality productive forces and has launched the 'Artificial Intelligence +' initiative to foster industrial development through technological innovation."

"The framework serves as a useful guidance for enterprises to utilise AI technology, thus promoting industrial innovation and upgrading. In the broader context, the framework contributes to the development of Hong Kong’s digital economy, helps strengthen the city’s status as a global technology and innovation hub and proactively facilitates its integration with the development of our Motherland," Wong added.

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