Hong Kong Faces Rising Cyber Threats as AI Amplifies Risks Hong Kong is intensifying efforts to bolster its cybersecurity defenses amid a surge in hacking attacks and data breaches. At a recent cybersecurity symposium, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong emphasized the need to develop technology and protective measures in tandem as the city aims to become a global innovation hub. Two key reports underscore the growing challenges. The city’s privacy watchdog recorded a 21% increase in data breach notifications in 2025, with 246 incidents reported 81 of which were hacking-related, marking a 33% year-on-year rise. The Hong Kong Productivity Council further warned of a record-high number of cyberattacks in 2024, driven in part by the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). AI-powered tools are making phishing scams more convincing and enabling automated attacks, such as generative AI that can autonomously interact with emails or websites, increasing the risk of data leaks. A cybersecurity firm’s preventive operation also revealed a more than threefold increase in vulnerable computer systems, exposing critical gaps in corporate defenses. While the government has ramped up efforts including public education campaigns, professional training, and interdepartmental drills experts stress that stronger safeguards are essential to protect Hong Kong’s digital infrastructure as it advances its tech ambitions.