The city plans to start a consultation on internet security law by the end of this year and should create a “strategic Internet security system” to coordinate on matters including licenses, inspection and investigation, Lau told a Hong Kong forum on Saturday.

Suggestions include having service operators monitor content, keep records and inspect users and report violations.

She said that someone spread the fake news and disinformation online, but there is no such a single law in Hong Kong that can deal with situations involving the internet's fake news and false information.

Hong Kong has no room for “lying flat” as the city may become a battlefield of geo-politics, Lau said, explaining the need to defend internet security.

Hong Kong could learn from other countries in dealing with fake news and information and even set up a Department to handle the issue.