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Do we need spy cameras in Hong Kong?

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Ronald Ling Pak-ki, 18, SKH Bishop Mok Sau Tseng Secondary School

Several recent incidents in the city, including the acid attacks and attacks on taxi drivers, have got the public talking about spy cameras.

We are all familiar with CCTV systems. There are cameras capturing our actions in all sorts of places: lifts, malls, office buildings. These spy cameras are meant to increase security.

But they have many weaknesses. For example, no camera can film everything at all times. There are always blind spots. What's more, if a criminal knows there is CCTV, he or she will find a way to avoid being filmed.

The installation of spy cameras raises the issue of privacy. Although we are told where CCTV is installed, it is impossible to prevent recorded video from being shared. It is worrying to think what could happen to the footage in the era of information sharing.

Spy cameras can of course provide evidence for the police, but only after the crimes happen.

I believe most Hong Kong citizens are well-educated and considerate. The crime rate is very low in Hong Kong, so I can't see any real need for spy cameras.

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