China is expanding the use of its “Online ID Card” service, allowing citizens to use their mobile phones for identity verification across various sectors. The system leverages NFC technology to read physical ID cards and facial recognition for authentication, enabling users to set up a mobile phone number and a password for their digital identity.
The “Online ID Card” system requires users to have a valid physical ID card. individuals under 14 years old must apply with a parent or guardian, while those between 14 and 18 years old need guardian consent. Expired or lost ID cards must be replaced before applying for the online version.
The service has been piloted in numerous industries in mainland China, including internet platforms, government services, education, tourism, healthcare, postal services, and transportation. The “National Network Identity Authentication App” has seen over 16 million downloads, with approximately 6 million successful applications and over 12.5 million authentication services completed.
Internet platforms integrating the “Online ID Card” service are no longer permitted to request explicit identity data from users who opt for online verification, unless mandated by law or provided voluntarily by the user.
Experts anticipate the continued growth of network identity authentication services, aiming to mitigate data leakage and theft while enhancing the security and privacy of online real-name systems. The range of applications for these digital identity credentials is also expected to broaden.
Source: IT Home
