Chinese developers have initiated beta testing for a new system of digital identification for citizens on the Internet, as reported by Chinese media. The pilot project involves 81 participants, including 71 private companies and 10 state organizations.
Major platforms such as WeChat, Taobao, and Xiaohongshu have joined the initiative, along with the messenger QQ from Tencent and the online service of China Railway 12306 for railway tickets.
The system aims to link a citizen’s real identity with their digital profile, functioning both online and in daily life. The government also plans to establish a specialized service for issuing and verifying digital certificates, with user data protected through encryption.
The introduction of a national digital ID is expected to eliminate the requirement for citizens to provide personal data to Internet providers, with the government assuming this responsibility.
Although the project was presented by Beijing authorities on July 26, it is not yet finalized. Citizens have until August 25 to provide feedback on the new system, but the ongoing pilot program indicates limited room for public input.
During the beta test, users access the system through an individualized number obtained by confirming their identity, undergoing facial scanning, linking a mobile phone, and creating an eight-digit password.
Public reception to the idea has been mixed, with some expressing concerns about privacy. A man in the Dunchens district of Beijing even filed a lawsuit, arguing that since the project is still in the experimental phase and not officially implemented, it is premature to conduct trials.
Despite the varying opinions, regulators remain committed to advancing the project, citing improved internet safety and user experience for residents of the country.