The number of malicious attacks on computers is rising rapidly, the police chief warned yesterday, shortly after two arrests in a high-profile case.
Commissioner of Police Andy Tsang Wai-hung told a Tsuen Wan District Council meeting there was only one hacking case in 2010 but 11 last year. Already this year there had been more than 10 cases. On Saturday, two people were arrested in connection with the hacking on Friday of computers being used for a mock chief executive election.
Their target was an online election organised by the University of Hong Kong's public opinion programme, which was extended to Saturday because of disruption caused by the hacking. The suspects, both Hongkongers and aged 17 and 28, have been released on bail.
Most computer attacks in Hong Kong target financial organisations, and some involve demands for financial payment, Tsang said.
It was uncommon for hackers to attack an online polling system, said Tsang, but he had observed a change in the 'nature of hacking'.
'Before, most hackers just wanted to show off their skills, but now we see more illegal activity online,' he said. 'Some involve threats and demands from outside Hong Kong.'
The police investigation of the case would involve examining computers belonging to both the suspects and the university.