Hong Kong privacy watchdog warns 3 domestic workers over use of employers’ data for loans

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The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) in Hong Kong issued warning letters to three foreign domestic workers who used their employers’ personal data—including names, phone numbers, and residential addresses—to secure loans without consent. Privacy Commissioner Ada Chung stated that these actions violated the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, as the loan applications were unrelated to the workers' employment. The employers, who were unaware of the debts until receiving contact from lenders or debt collectors, subsequently dismissed the three workers.

Consequences

Affected employers were advised to report these cases to the government to ensure the incidents are considered should the workers attempt to re-enter Hong Kong for future employment. The situation highlights a vulnerability for both employers and foreign domestic workers, who are often targeted by loan sharks due to the pressure to provide financial support to their home countries.

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