1.    Local newspapers reported today that some classified police documents containing personal data were leaked on the internet through a file-sharing software called "Foxy".

2.    The Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data Mr. Roderick B Woo is very concerned about this matter.  "I have written to the Police to inquire into the incident and my Office will keep monitoring the development of the incident, which may lead to a formal investigation."  Mr. Woo said.

3.    A Senior Superintendent of Police (Technology Crime and Intelligence) (Commercial Crime Bureau) contacted the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data by phone this morning confirming that the Police has publicly announced that some police officers had used their personal computers to prepare police reports but unfortunately the reports stored in their computers were leaked via Foxy to other internet users.  The Commissioner of Police would presently provide the Privacy Commissioner with an initial update of the incident in writing.

4.    "In the midst of a spate of data leakage incidents caused by the use of file sharing software, I strongly urge all data users to stay alert when processing personal data with computers equipped with software which has a sharing function, and carefully tick off documents containing personal data from the sharing list."  Mr. Woo said.