Authorities say a proposed national Internet ID system will protect user data. Critics fear control not privacy is the real appeal.

Based on a report by Arthur Kaufman | China Digital Times | Full Text Available Here

Summary

A proposal to roll out a national Internet ID system in China has stoked fears the state’s already extensive use of technology to control citizens will further erode individual privacy and freedom of expression.

The draft law released by China’s Ministry of Public Security would essentially move third-party identity verification from ISPs and SNS management into the hands of the government.

Under the plan, every Chinese citizen would be assigned a unique ID in two forms: one as a series of letters and numbers, and the other as an online credential, both corresponding to an individual’s real-life identity but excluding any plaintext information. To acquire a cyberspace ID users must upload personal details, undergo facial scanning, and link their phone number. The government claims the system will protect privacy and prevent online fraud by reducing the excessive collection of personal information by Internet platforms.

Voluntary initially for websites and apps, the proposed system is open for public comment until the end of August. Censors, however, have restricted online discussions and disabled comments related to the proposal to contain public backlash. While presented as voluntary, users without a valid internet ID will, in effect, not be able to access online services without one.

Critics point to China’s existing “real name” registration system (which requires Internet users to disclose their identities), has all but removed people’s ability to comment or take online action anonymously. French commentator Wang Longmeng sees the move towards a digital ID as part of a broader trend of suppressing online freedom of expression since Xi Jinping came to power. He described the digital ID as an additional form of control, likening it to electronic handcuffs.

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