ISSUING AUTHORITIES:

Ministry of Public Security

Cyberspace Administration of China

DATE OF ISSUANCE:

June 26, 2024

On July 26, 2024, the Ministry of Public Security and the Cyberspace Administration of China released an announcement seeking publication consultation of draft Measures for the Administration of National Network Identity Authentication Public Services (the “Draft Measures”).

The Draft Measures stipulate that the government should establish a public service platform (“Government Authentication Platform”) to provide online identity authentication services. Individuals would then have the option to voluntarily apply for a “Cyber Number” and “Cyber Certificate” on the Government Authentication Platform.

The Draft Measures are designed to significantly reduce internet platform operators’ over-collection and storage of ID card numbers and other explicit personal information. The Draft Measures state that individuals legally required to authenticate their real identities for internet services provided by internet platform operators may use their Cyber Number and Cyber Certificate for verification purposes, rather than providing identification documents such as ID cards.

The Draft Measures also aim to ensure that the Government Authentication Platform complies with various principles and obligations established by the Personal Information Protection Law. These measures uphold the minimal necessary principle and emphasize the importance of obtaining informed consent. Additionally, the Draft Measures include provisions for enhanced protection of minors by requiring parental consent and supervision for online identity authentication processes.

Reference:

公安部 国家互联网信息办公室关于《国家网络身份认证公共服务管理办法（征求意见稿）》公开征求意见的公告