China starts testing national cyber-ID before consultation on the idea closes
China is testing a national cyberspace ID system using facial recognition and real names across 81 apps. The program aims to link real identities to digital ones, raising privacy concerns.
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China has initiated a beta test for a national cyberspace ID system that will utilize facial recognition and real names of users. This pilot program includes 81 apps, comprising 71 private and 10 government applications, such as WeChat, Taobao, and QQ. The ID system aims to serve as both a physical and online credential, linking a citizen's real-life identity to an encrypted digital identity, which will be managed by a government platform. The intention is to relieve internet service providers (ISPs) from the responsibility of collecting and retaining personal data, transferring this duty to the government instead. Proposed on July 26, the scheme is currently open for public comments until August 25, raising concerns about privacy and surveillance. Critics, including a law professor from Tsinghua University, have likened the system to monitoring citizens' online activities. Additionally, a citizen has filed a lawsuit against the pilot program, arguing that it should not be in operation while still in the consultation phase. Users participating in the beta test must log in using a virtual number after completing ID verification, facial recognition, and linking their mobile phones. The rapid progression of the pilot program suggests a push from Beijing to implement the system despite ongoing public discourse.
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