 "Now, reveal your real identity to access internet in China")
For years now, China’s government has been pushing internet users towards real-name registration for some internet services, with varying degrees of success. But with a new cybersecurity law that will go into effect on June 1, 2017, the government has officially stopped beating around the bush. If you want to get online in China, you’ll have to provide your real identity.
In other words, ISPs, WiFi node operators, and any other company that provides internet access will need to confirm your real identity before they can let you online. All network operators are also required to cooperate with police and state security organisations by handing over records if requested.
Companies that fail to do this, according to the law, are subject to fines of between $7,300 and $73,000, temporary or permanent suspensions of their websites or their entire business, and cancellation of operating licenses. Specific individuals within the companies found to be responsible may also be fined between $1,500 and $15,000.
In addition to internet access providers, other services including social media and messaging services will be subject to the same laws and penalties.
Trouble for foreign companies
The new cybersecurity law also looks set to make trouble for foreign companies. Companies that work in strategically important sectors must store all of their data in China and submit to security reviews conducted by the government. The law defines China’s strategic sectors very broadly, meaning that everyone from transportation companies to online finance firms will be subject to the new rules. And it’s not yet clear precisely what these security reviews will entail. Some foreign firms are concerned that they’ll be required to hand over the source code for all of their products.
This is an excerpt from Tech in Asia. You can read the full article here