China's Top Apps, including WeChat and Taobao, Trial Proposed National Cyber ID System
Over 50 popular apps in China are testing a new cyber ID scheme. Users can apply for virtual IDs to secure their personal information. Legal experts raise alarm about the increased surveillance and privacy ramifications.

China's Ministry of Public Security and Cyberspace Administration recently announced a draft regulation for "National Cyber ID Authentication". More than 50 apps have started accepting virtual IDs generated by this technology for user registration and login. Public feedback is welcome until August 25.
The goal of cyber ID authentication is to prohibit online platforms' excessive acquisition and storage of users' personal data under the pretence of real-name registration, as specified in the proposed rule.
Chinese internet users can freely apply for a virtual ID to verify their online identities without disclosing sensitive personal information such as national ID numbers to the sites. The application process entails scanning a physical ID card via an app, going through face recognition, linking a mainland China-registered phone number, and setting an eight-digit password.

Virtual ID applicants can also use a China passport, a mainland travel permit for residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, or a foreign permanent resident ID for non-Chinese nationals residing in China.
According to a survey by the South China Morning Post, popular apps like Meitu, Taobao, Tmall, Meituan, and Douyin have introduced a new login option for virtual IDs. Tencent's WeChat and Alibaba's Taobao already offer identity authentication for accounts flagged for "abnormal" activity.
While China's initiative aims to enhance data security and prevent personal information misuse, legal experts have raised concerns about the potential impact on privacy and government oversight. They fear increased surveillance of online activities, despite the convenience of a unified network identity for online transactions.
Shen Kui, a law professor at Peking University, acknowledged the simplification of authentication processes but warned against the risks of a centralised surveillance system tracking individuals' online presence. Lao Dongyan, a criminal law professor at Tsinghua University, expressed similar concerns about the system potentially restricting access to online services.
Over 50 top apps in China are trialling a new cyber ID system
Users can apply for virtual IDs to protect personal information
Legal experts express concerns over increased surveillance and privacy implications
Source: YAHOO