Authorities in Hong Kong can now require individuals to hand over passwords for electronic devices under changes linked to the national security framework, with penalties for non-compliance and for providing incorrect information.

Under the updated rules, law enforcement officers in Hong Kong can demand access to phones and computers from individuals suspected of offences under the law. Refusal to provide passwords or decryption assistance can result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to HK$100,000 (around $12,700). Providing “false or misleading information” can lead to a prison term of up to three years and a fine of up to HK$500,000.

The changes were introduced through amendments to a bylaw under Hong Kong’s national security law. The law itself was introduced in Hong Kong in 2020 following large-scale protests the previous year.

Officials in Hong Kong said that the amendmentswould ensure that “activities endangering national security can be effectively prevented, suppressed and punished, and at the same time the lawful rights and interests of individuals and organisations are adequately protected”.

The updated provisions also allow customs authorities in Hong Kong to seize items they consider to have “seditious intention”.

The announcement was made by Hong Kong’s leader John Lee, bypassing the legislative council.

The United States Department of State issued a warning following the changes, stating that the rules apply broadly to anyone present in Hong Kong. “It is now a criminal offense to refuse to give the Hong Kong police the passwords or decryption assistance to access all personal electronic devices including cellphones and laptops. This legal change applies to everyone, including U.S. citizens, in Hong Kong, arriving or just transiting Hong Kong International Airport,” the department said.

The department also cautioned that even passengers passing through Hong Kong International Airport could be subject to device searches.

Authorities in Hong Kong have maintained that the national security law targets acts such as terrorism, secession, subversion and collusion with external forces. However, critics have said the provisions cover a wide range of offences that are not clearly defined.