The Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) reported a significant wave of harassment against journalists, their families, and associates in recent months. This harassment, which includes death threats and defamatory complaints, has been primarily orchestrated by self-proclaimed 'patriots' through emails, letters, and social media attacks. The HKJA described the situation as a 'systematic and organized' effort to intimidate the journalistic community, leading some reporters to leave their positions. Selina Cheng, chair of the HKJA, emphasized that the harassment damages press freedom and is unacceptable. While some cases have been reported to the police and privacy commissioner's office, there is concern over potential data leaks aiding the harassment. The association condemned these actions as a severe threat to press freedom, urging for zero tolerance towards such intimidation.