China is set to issue unique digital IDs, also called Cyberspace IDs, for its citizens from July 15, 2025. The initiative aims to streamline public service and remove the need to verify their identity for various services.
The electronically issued ID card consists of letters and numbers (alphanumeric) and a credential. The plan has divided the experts with some claiming that it can be used to censor expression. However, so far, six million Chinese citizens have applied for these digital IDs. The proposal to implement these nationally distributed Cyberspace ID cards was approved back in May 2025.
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Benefits of using digital ID cards for Chinese citizens
Chinese citizens can use their digital ID cards for various government and private sector online services. That means they won’t have to go through a verification process each time they try to subscribe to a service. Authorities also stress that the Cyberspace IDs help avoid sharing personal data online and claim that they will eventually improve cybersecurity and online privacy.
The ID cards will be issued by a National Network Identity Authentication Public Service Platform. It will collect only the personal information that is needed for authentication purposes.
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Citizens tracking through Chinese Cyberspace IDs
Right activists argue that Cyberspace IDs can be exploited to easily track citizens’ behavior. When a user subscribes to an internet service, the service provider can use their online details for registration. However, users can opt to choose to add details manually. However, there’s a fear that the digital service could be a medium for public censorship.
To compare, Nepal has the Nagarik App, National ID card, India has an electronic QR-enabled Aadhar Card, while South Korea, France, etc., also have enforced digital ID cards for their citizens. The difference though is that in these countries, these digital ID cards are used for public services. However, in China, it’s feared that every internet user might have to use such a card for their service registration.
Do you think a federated digital ID card can be used to track citizens and could it be used to curb the voices? Do share your opinion in the comment box below.