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Technology
China China Government Digital ID digital identification technology Digital Identity Digital system Technology

China’s National Digital ID System Trials Begin Across 80 Internet Service Applications

 

China has initiated trials for its new national digital identification system across more than 80 internet service applications. This move follows the release of draft rules on July 26, with a public review and comment period open until August 25. The proposed system marks a significant step toward enhancing digital security and privacy for Chinese internet users. Internet users can now apply for their national digital ID by logging onto a mobile app called National Web Identification Pilot Version, developed by China’s Ministry of Public Security (MPS). 

This digital ID, which displays the user’s name, a “web number,” and a QR code, requires users to complete several verification steps, including national ID card verification and facial recognition. The digital ID can currently be used on 81 different applications, encompassing 10 public service platforms and 71 commercial apps. Notable platforms participating in the trial include the popular social media provider WeChat, the online shopping service Taobao, and the online recruitment platform Zhaopin. This broad implementation aims to test the ID’s functionality across a diverse range of services, highlighting its potential to streamline user identification and enhance security across various online activities. 

The proposed digital ID, detailed in a draft provision released by the MPS and the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), aims to reduce the amount of personal information that internet platforms can collect from their users. The draft rules state that applying for the digital ID is voluntary, offering users the choice to opt-in to this new system. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address privacy concerns and reduce the risk of data leaks, which have been exacerbated by the misuse of the current real-name registration system by some internet platforms. The current real-name registration system has allowed internet platforms to accumulate excessive amounts of personal information, leading to heightened privacy risks. The proposed digital ID system seeks to mitigate these risks by limiting the data collected by platforms. 

By requiring only essential information for verification, the digital ID aims to provide a more secure and privacy-conscious way for users to interact online. In addition to improving privacy, the digital ID system also promises to enhance convenience for users. With a single digital ID, users can seamlessly access multiple services without repeatedly providing personal information. This streamlined process not only simplifies the user experience but also reduces the opportunities for data to be misused or leaked. The trial of the national digital ID system represents a significant step towards addressing privacy issues while streamlining the process of user identification online. By implementing a digital ID, China aims to create a more secure and privacy-conscious internet environment for its users. 

This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for robust digital security measures in an increasingly interconnected world. As the public review and comment period progresses, feedback from users and stakeholders will be crucial in refining the digital ID system. The insights gained from this trial will help shape the final implementation, ensuring that the system effectively balances security, privacy, and user convenience. China’s commitment to enhancing digital security and privacy through this national digital ID system sets a precedent that could influence similar initiatives worldwide.
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SEPA
Cyber Attacks Digital system Ransomware SEPA

Threat Actors Demand Ransom After Major Cyber Attack on Scottish Environmental Protection Agency

 

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said its digital systems have been severely affected by a ransomware attack since Christmas Eve. Threat actors have locked agency's emails and contact centers and are demanding a ransom to unlock them.

National Cyber Security Centre and Scotland Police are investigating the whole incident and it is believed that the international cybercriminal group is behind the ransomware attack. Cybersecurity experts have unearthed that threat actors have stolen nearly 1.2 GB of data which suggests threat actors may have accessed and stolen 4,000 files.

SEPA said they have to start from scratch and build a whole new system following a ‘significant cyber-attack’. Agency further stated that essential services regarding food forecasting and warnings have not been hit by cyber-attack. Though it remains highly unlikely that 1,300 employees will be able to secure access to their old emails and online documents.

Scotland’s environmental regulator has termed this attack as an “incredibly sophisticated attack” and warned threat actors to face the consequences. We are aware that threat actors are demanding a ransom to unlock the agency's system but they will not succeed in their plan.

SEPA’s Chief Executive Terry A’ Hearn stated that “whilst we don’t know and may never know the full detail of the 1.2 GB of information stolen, what we know is that early indications suggest that the theft of information related to several business areas, some of the information stolen will have been publicly available”. 

The Conti ransomware group asserted the attack and has already leaked sensitive information on its site. The stolen information includes personal information associated with SEPA employees and information associated with commercial work with international allies.
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