Over 6 million residents of the Chinese mainland have adopted cyberspace IDs to protect personal data, according to a Friday announcement by the Ministry of Public Security (MPS). The system, operational since June 2023, allows users to register for online services without disclosing sensitive information like ID numbers or real names.
How Cyberspace IDs Work
The IDs take two forms: alphanumeric codes or digital credentials linked to verified real-life identities. Both formats exclude plain text details, with authentication managed through a national platform that validates legal documents like resident ID cards.
New Regulations Take Effect July 15
Jointly issued by six departments including the MPS and Cyberspace Administration of China, new rules prohibit internet service providers from demanding additional personal data when users opt for cyberspace IDs. Exceptions require legal mandates or explicit user consent.
Balancing Security and Growth
The platform adheres to a "minimum and necessary" data collection standard, sharing only verification results with service providers. An MPS official confirmed the voluntary program aims to "ensure secure identity verification while supporting the digital economy." The related authentication app has seen 16 million downloads to date.
