The Water Supplies Department (WSD) today confirmed a personal digital assistant (PDA) containing consumers' data went missing during field meter-reading work conducted by its staff on Wednesday. 

The PDA contained a total of 495 names and addresses of domestic consumers from three buildings in Fortress Hill.

Apart from one consumer's information that contained a telephone number, other information involved did not contain any personal identity card numbers or other personal information.

The WSD has notified the relevant authorities including the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data and the Digital Policy Office, and also made a report to Police. The WSD said it will fully co-operate with the relevant authorities and Police in their investigations and operations.

The WSD has informed the consumers referenced, alerted them to raise their awareness and apologised for the incident. 

Affected consumers who have any further enquiries on the incident may call the WSD's customer services hotline at 2824 5000 or send an email to: wsdinfo1@wsd.gov.hk.

The WSD stressed that it attaches great importance to the incident, adding that immediate follow-up actions were taken. 

The department has reminded staff that they must heighten their vigilance and properly safeguard government property. They must also strictly follow guidelines regarding the proper handling and confidentiality of personal data.

Meanwhile, the department is conducting a detailed investigation into the personnel involved and the circumstances of the incident. Depending on the findings, appropriate disciplinary action may be considered. 

It will also conduct a detailed review of the equipment and procedures used by staff during field meter-reading work, and explore measures to strengthen data protection.