China is considering a law to issue 'cyberspace IDs'; instead of having to give personal information to companies, the Chinese Communist Party will monitor everything

China's Ministry of Public Security has released a draft law to grant 'cyber IDs' to citizens and has begun soliciting public comments. It has been explained that the 'cyber ID' will protect citizens' privacy by avoiding the registration of personal information with ISPs and other organizations, but experts point out that it will 'lead to strengthening surveillance by the Chinese government.'

Ministry of Public Security National Communication Security Information Office Office
https://www.cac.gov.cn/2024-07/26/c_1723675813897965.htm

​China mulls granting cyberspace IDs | english.scio.gov.cn
http://english.scio.gov.cn/pressroom/2024-07/27/content_117334604.htm

China Wants to Start a National Internet ID System - The New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/31/business/china-national-internet-id.html

In China, a law was passed in 2012 making real-name registration mandatory when signing up for an ISP or mobile phone line . Furthermore, in 2017 a rule was enacted making real-name registration mandatory when using online bulletin boards and SNS, making it extremely difficult to use the internet while maintaining privacy.

Chinese government to require real name registration for postings on online bulletin boards - GIGAZINE

The 'Cyberspace ID' proposed by the Ministry of Public Security is issued in the form of a personally identifiable 'random string' or 'online authentication information,' and citizens can use online services while maintaining their privacy by submitting their 'Cyberspace ID' instead of their real name. In addition, the 'Cyberspace ID' will not be issued compulsorily, but will be issued to citizens who voluntarily apply for it.

At first glance, the 'Cyberspace ID' seems to be useful for protecting privacy, but Lu Qiu Luwei, a researcher of censorship in authoritarian regimes at Hong Kong Baptist University, points out that 'authorities will use the 'Cyberspace ID' to monitor all online behavior.' At present, various ISPs and SNS manage information individually, but if the 'Cyberspace ID' is issued, the authorities will be able to monitor behavior on all services across the board.

The Ministry of Public Security is accepting public comments on 'Cyberspace ID' until August 25, 2024.