Forgers are unable to grasp the anti-forgery features which are unique to Hong Kong's new smart identity cards, Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee told legislators today.

These features include the use of optical variable ink, multiple laser images, a kineprint that enables images to change colours when viewed at different angles, and a high-quality laser-engraved photograph on a polycarbonate card body.

It is not difficult for the general public to tell the difference between a genuine card and a fake one under careful scrutiny, he added.

Mr Lee said Hong Kong Police had not taken part in a joint operation conducted by the police forces in Macao and Zhuhai earlier this month which uncovered a cross-boundary criminal syndicate specialised in forging documents.

Among the articles seized were some high-quality forged Hong Kong smart identity cards.

Alleged criminal syndicate not involved in past cases

Mr Lee explained that original intelligence indicated that the target of operation would not involve any forged Hong Kong identity documents and, therefore, Hong Kong's law-enforcement agencies were not invited to participate in the operation.

However, he said, upon learning about the case, the Immigration Department had liaised with relevant Mainland and Macao enforcement agencies and obtained details for appropriate follow-up actions.

He said there is no evidence to suggest that the alleged criminal syndicate was involved in cases of forged smart identity cards found in Hong Kong in the past.

Immigration steps up smart card publicity

"To prevent the public and employers from being deceived, the Immigration Department has strengthened publicity in this respect," he said.

Apart from producing posters and pamphlets for public reference, it has held talks for banks, property management companies, construction companies and law enforcement agencies.