What's New
What's New - Reaching Out to the Community – Privacy Commissioner Interviewed by Media to Explain New Guidance on the Use of CCTV System and Video Cameras on Drones and Vehicles
Date: 28 October 2025
Reaching Out to the Community – Privacy Commissioner Interviewed by Media to Explain New Guidance on the Use of CCTV System and Video Cameras on Drones and Vehicles
The Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (Privacy Commissioner), Ms Ada CHUNG Lai-ling, was interviewed by RTHK Radio 1’s “HK2000” and Commercial Radio’s “On a Clear Day” on 28 October. In the interviews, she explained the “Guidance on the Use of CCTV Surveillance” and the “Guidance on the Use of Video Cameras on Drones and Vehicles” issued by her Office (PCPD).
The Privacy Commissioner stated that the PCPD received 995 enquiries regarding the installation of CCTV systems in the first nine months of this year, the vast majority of which involved disputes between neighbours arising from the use of CCTV systems. She reminded members of the public to consider the necessity of installing CCTVs, whether the location concerned is a private space, and whether less privacy-intrusive alternatives are available. She also recommended posting notices to inform individuals who are being monitored.
Regarding the installation of in-vehicle cameras, the Privacy Commissioner noted that vehicle compartments are semi-private spaces, and recommended notices be posted by operators of in-vehicle cameras to notify passengers of the existence and functions of the cameras. The newly issued guidance also includes a sample sticker on the notice for in-vehicle cameras for use in passenger-carrying vehicles. In addition, footages captured must be properly handled, including specifying data retention periods and access controls.
The Privacy Commissioner also pointed out that drones have a wide coverage area, and therefore require extra caution during operation. This includes planning flight paths carefully, using flashing lights, as well as placing notices or large banners at launch sites to inform affected individuals about the drone operations.
The Privacy Commissioner stated that the PCPD received 995 enquiries regarding the installation of CCTV systems in the first nine months of this year, the vast majority of which involved disputes between neighbours arising from the use of CCTV systems. She reminded members of the public to consider the necessity of installing CCTVs, whether the location concerned is a private space, and whether less privacy-intrusive alternatives are available. She also recommended posting notices to inform individuals who are being monitored.
Regarding the installation of in-vehicle cameras, the Privacy Commissioner noted that vehicle compartments are semi-private spaces, and recommended notices be posted by operators of in-vehicle cameras to notify passengers of the existence and functions of the cameras. The newly issued guidance also includes a sample sticker on the notice for in-vehicle cameras for use in passenger-carrying vehicles. In addition, footages captured must be properly handled, including specifying data retention periods and access controls.
The Privacy Commissioner also pointed out that drones have a wide coverage area, and therefore require extra caution during operation. This includes planning flight paths carefully, using flashing lights, as well as placing notices or large banners at launch sites to inform affected individuals about the drone operations.
The Privacy Commissioner, Ms Ada CHUNG Lai-ling, was interviewed by RTHK Radio 1’s “HK2000”.