China: Opened consultation on CAC Measures for Administration of National Network Identity Authentication Public Services

On 26 July 2024, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) opened a public consultation on the draft National Network Identity Authentication Public Service Management Measures until 25 August 2024. The draft includes measures for the construction of a national online identity authentication public service, which individuals will be able to use to access public portals and services. Furthermore, the draft measures specify that internet platforms can connect with public services to facilitate the use of online numbers and certificates for user registration and identity verification. Once connected, if users opt to use these online tools and pass verification, platforms cannot request additional identity information unless required by law or with the user's consent. Platforms must also ensure that users utilising online numbers and certificates receive the same services as other users.