China: Cyberspace Administration’s Measures for Administration of National Network Identity Authentication Public Services enter into force

On 15 July 2025, the Cyberspace Administration of China’s (CAC) Measures for Administration of National Network Identity Authentication Public Services enter into force. The Measures include a national online identity authentication public service, which individuals will be able to use to access public portals and services. Furthermore, the measures encourage internet platforms to connect with public services to facilitate the use of online numbers and certificates for user registration and identity verification. Users are not required to register their identity through the use of online numbers or certificates, and internet platforms are obligated to ensure equitable access to resources for those who verify their identity through other means. 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.