Beware of fraudulent “LeaveHomeSafe” mobile app

The Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) today (February 16) reminded members of the public that they should beware of websites purporting to be that of the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app, with some even claiming to have rewritten the app for public downloading recently. The public should stay vigilant and not fall victim to these fraudulent websites.

The spokesman for the OGCIO said that websites or mobile apps of doubtful origin may carry a computer virus or Trojan horse software that pose cyber security risks. Members of the public are strongly advised not to visit or download them.

The spokesman reiterated that no registration is required to use the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app. There is no central system to record the data, and venue check-in data are saved on users' mobile phones only. Matching of users' check-in data and the issuing of health alerts will only be carried out within the app. Users' whereabouts will not be disclosed to others. The app does not pose a risk to privacy and members of the public can feel at ease when using the app. At present, the number of downloads of the app exceeds 840 000. Over 70 000 public and private venues have participated in the scheme.

The "LeaveHomeSafe" dedicated website is www.leavehomesafe.gov.hk. Members of the public can download the app from the App Store, Google Play, or Huawei AppGallery, to fight the virus together.

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