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China’s Digital ID Proposal Sparks Debate About Privacy and Security

Published: Jul. 31, 2024  9:22 p.m.  GMT+8
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People browse their phones while waiting to receive a Covid-19 vaccine in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, on Aug. 27, 2021. Photo: VCG
People browse their phones while waiting to receive a Covid-19 vaccine in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang province, on Aug. 27, 2021. Photo: VCG

Chinese authorities are seeking public comment about a set of proposed new national digital identification rules that aim to cut down on the personal information that internet platforms can collect from their users.

The proposed digital ID, which was detailed in a draft provision released by the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) on Friday, has already set off a debate in the legal community and the broader public about whether the proposal might do more harm than good.

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  • China proposes new national digital IDs to reduce personal data collection by internet platforms.
  • Legal debates arise over potential drawbacks, including concerns over voluntariness and data security.
  • Public feedback is sought until August 25, with the proposal managed by the Ministry of Public Security and Cyberspace Administration of China.
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What Happened When
Friday, July 26, 2024:
The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) released a draft provision detailing the proposed new national digital identification rules.
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