HKIRC and the Trusted Notifier Network Limited to Sign Memorandum of Understanding
Establishing a Collaboration Framework to Mitigate Online Abuse
The Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited (HKIRC) and the Trusted Notifier Network Limited (TNN) are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 20 May 2026, formalising a collaborative framework to strengthen the mitigation of Domain Name System (DNS) abuse associated with .hk domain names.
Under the MOU, TNN will act as a designated partner supporting .hk domain related abuse reporting. This partnership represents a significant step forward in advancing a coordinated, transparent, and procedurally robust approach to addressing online abuse, while upholding the principles of accountability and responsible Internet governance.
The collaboration aims to establish a structured and reliable mechanism to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and integrity of abuse reporting and mitigation processes. By combining TNN’s trusted notifier framework with HKIRC’s role as the administrator of Hong Kong’s domain name system, both parties seek to strengthen the handling of abuse cases through enhanced due diligence, clear procedures, and mutual accountability.
Requirements for Abuse Reporting under TNN
All abuse reports submitted through the Trusted Notifier Network must comply with the VINA Standards, which require that reports be:
• Verified: The reported abuse must be directly confirmed with the victim or affected party.
• Indemnified: The victim must provide legal indemnity to protect the relevant intermediary.
• Non-automated: Reports must undergo human review; fully automated submissions are not accepted.
• Accurate: Participating notifiers must maintain an accuracy rate of at least 98%; failure to do so may result in removal from the network.
Scope of Abuse Reporting
The collaboration support the following six categories of abuse reports:
1. DNS technical abuse (e.g. phishing, malware, botnets, spam)
2. Online scams and fraud (e.g. investment scams, cryptocurrency scams, impersonation)
3. Fake shops and online shopping fraud
4. Illegal gambling
5. Illegal drug sales
6. Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), as confirmed by a competent authority
HKIRC plays a vital role in maintaining a secure, stable, and reliable Internet environment in Hong Kong. Through this MOU, HKIRC and TNN will further strengthen cooperation to enhance abuse mitigation capabilities, particularly in combating malicious cyber activities.
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Media Enquiry:
Hong Kong Internet Registration Corporation Limited
Marketing and Communication Department
Tel：(852) 2319 3835
Email：marketing@hkirc.hk