Response to Media Report on the Use of Fingerprint Recognition System by a School


1.    In response to Sing Tao Daily's report today (14 July) on the introduction of fingerprint recognition system by a school, the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data ("the Commissioner") Mr. Roderick B. Woo said that from the perspective of personal data privacy protection, the Commissioner objected to the collection of fingerprint data from young children for attendance purpose by schools.  The Commissioner would consider that collection of such sensitive data was unnecessary and excessive collection for the purpose intended and might contravene Data Protection Principle 1(1) in the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance.

2.    The Commissioner advises that schools should consider other less privacy intrusive options.  The Commissioner concerns whether the pupils possess the requisite mental capacity to clearly understand the adverse impact brought by the provision of their fingerprints.  Moreover, he is of the view that schools should not collect fingerprint data from young children indiscriminately because this may weaken their awareness of protecting their personal data in the future.

3.    In the circumstances, the Commissioner will contact the school for further information.






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