Critics fear NPC's new rules for digital information will stifle the internet
State media hail new regulations to protect digital information, but critics fear these will be used to silence dissent on online forums
The National People's Congress Standing Committee passed controversial internet rules yesterday that critics say will further rein in the internet's role as a forum for the free exchange of ideas and deter potential whistleblowers seeking to expose corruption.
The NPC Standing Committee said, however, that the rules would enhance the protection of personal information online and safeguard public interests.
The Decision to Strengthen the Protection of Online Information was passed without public consultation and after just one reading.
The new rules, which have the same legal effect as a law, ban the obtaining of personal digital information by theft or other illegal means, selling such information or illegally providing it to others.
State media have been trumpeting how the new rules will be used to shield internet users from harassing phone calls and fraud involving personal information.
But internet users and critics are concerned that the rules will enable stricter control of cyberspace by requiring the registration of real names whenever they sign up for internet access, a phone service or publish online.
In recent years, the internet has become a popular and powerful platform for people to vent their discontent about party officials' misbehaviour, targeting their extravagant lifestyles and extramarital affairs, the bullying of petitioners and possession of multiple properties. Such complaints have occasionally resulted in official investigations and sometimes the downfall of the officials involved.