HKMA statement on Octopus Card Limited

Press Releases

19 Jul 2010

HKMA statement on Octopus Card Limited

In the light of recent enquiries about data privacy issues involving the Octopus Rewards Scheme operated by the Octopus Rewards Limited (ORL), the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to clarify that ORL is an entity separate from Octopus Card Limited (OCL). OCL, which operates a multiple-purpose stored value card (the Octopus card), is an authorized institution under the Banking Ordinance and supervised by the HKMA. ORL, which does not operate any multi-purpose cards scheme, is not authorized under the Banking Ordinance and is not subject to the supervision of the HKMA. Following reports about data privacy issues surrounding ORL, the HKMA is taking action to collect from OCL further information about its dealings with ORL.

The HKMA also understands that the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data is examining data privacy issues related to ORL. The HKMA has asked OCL to provide full co-operation to the Privacy Commissioner in his examination. The HKMA will be happy to provide any assistance if requested by the Privacy Commissioner.

The HKMA requires all authorized institutions, including OCL, to ensure that they handle personal data of customers in full accordance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance and the Code of Practice on Consumer Data. The HKMA will ensure authorized institutions' compliance with relevant data privacy requirements through regular on-site and off-site supervision.

For further enquiries, please contact:
Anissa Wong, Manager (Communications), at 2878 1802 or
Natalie Wu, Officer (Communications), at 2878 8246

Hong Kong Monetary Authority
19 July 2010

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Last revision date : 19 July 2010