China is on the verge of introducing a national Cyberspace ID, which could fundamentally change access to online platforms. The National Cyber ID Authentication is expected to consist of a combination of numbers and letters and will be mandatory for using many online services. To register, citizens will need to upload their identification documents, undergo facial scanning, and provide their phone numbers. The government views this step as a measure to improve online security.
The announcement of this initiative by the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has sparked intense debate and criticism. However, significant changes to the plan are not anticipated. Critics see the Cyberspace ID as a massive expansion of state control, far surpassing the existing Real-Name ID system, which already requires users to register on online platforms with their real name and phone number.
The introduction of the Cyberspace ID could drastically alter digital life in China. Critics argue that it could further tighten the already strict control of the internet in China and significantly limit citizens’ freedom online. They fear that by centralizing online activities, citizens will become transparent individuals whose online behavior is fully monitored. This could severely impact creativity and open discourse on the internet.
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China Intellectual Property Blog 