In mid-July, China took another step in controlling the internet — officially rolling out a new cyber ID system.
It works through a government-approved app. Users verify their real identity and receive a digital number and certificate.
On paper, China has had a real-name registration system since 2017, requiring people to use their legal identity for online accounts. So, why a new cyber ID?
The key difference is centralization. Under the old system, if authorities wanted to know who posted something online, they had to request that data from the platform. Now, they can access it directly.
Beijing says the system — currently voluntary — will prevent scams and improve privacy by letting users avoid giving their personal details to individual platforms. But critics see another motive: making it easier to track and identify anyone posting online.
Concerns aren’t limited to inside China. Millions of Chinese nationals living abroad still use Chinese platforms to connect with family back home. Experts warn they too could be affected, especially given the country’s strict censorship environment.
For many internet users in China, the message is clear: you were never anonymous — and now, you’ll be reminded of it every time you log on.
*This story was originally published on https://www.dw.com/ and is republished here with permission.*
