Beijing, China — Over 6 million citizens in the Chinese mainland have adopted cyberspace IDs to protect their online privacy, according to the Ministry of Public Security (MPS). This initiative allows internet users to avoid providing explicit personal information to internet service providers, strengthening privacy protection in the digital age.
Cyberspace IDs come in two forms: a series of letters and numbers, and an online credential. Both correspond to an individual’s real-life identity but exclude any plain text information. This means users can register for services or verify their identities without sharing personal details like ID numbers or real names.
In June 2023, Chinese authorities launched a national service platform that issues these digital identities by verifying legal documents such as resident ID cards. The official app used to issue and authenticate cyberspace IDs has been downloaded over 16 million times.
On Friday, six government departments, including the MPS and the Cyberspace Administration of China, published regulations on public services related to cyberspace IDs, which will take effect on July 15. These regulations stipulate that if an internet user chooses to use a cyberspace ID, internet service providers should not require additional plain text information unless legally mandated or with the user’s consent.
An MPS official emphasized that obtaining a cyberspace ID is voluntary. “This service not only ensures secure and convenient identity verification for citizens but also supports the growth of China’s digital economy,” the official stated.
The national cyberspace ID authentication service platform will only collect personal information strictly necessary for authentication purposes. Under a “minimum and necessary” standard, the platform will provide only verification results to internet service providers. Retention of a user’s real-life identity information is permitted only when legally required and with explicit user consent.
This move is seen as a significant step in enhancing online privacy and security for Chinese citizens, aligning with global trends towards greater data protection and digital identity management.
