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China Launches 'Digital GULAG': A New Era of Online Surveillance

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By Tom Grant
1 min read
China Launches 'Digital GULAG': A New Era of Online Surveillance

TL;DR

China has introduced a mandatory “Digital ID” system for online activities, raising concerns about privacy and surveillance. This system, reminiscent of a digital GULAG, requires citizens to share personal data for internet access, ostensibly to combat fraud but effectively enabling total government oversight.

Main Content

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Introduction

China has launched a digital identification system, referred to as the “Digital ID,” which functions similarly to local government services portals. This system, while currently optional, is set to become mandatory, raising significant concerns about privacy and government surveillance1.

Digital ID: A Tool for Surveillance

The Digital ID system requires citizens to provide personal and biometric data to access online services. Every interaction, from clicks to likes, is recorded in a state registry, ostensibly to protect against fraud. However, the underlying motive appears to be total control over citizens’ online activities2.

Global Implications

This move has caught the attention of international bodies, including Roskomnadzor, highlighting the global implications of such invasive surveillance measures. The system’s implementation underscores a broader trend towards digital authoritarianism, where technology is used to monitor and control citizens3.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Digital ID system in China marks a significant shift towards enhanced online surveillance. While presented as a measure against fraud, the system’s true purpose seems to be comprehensive government oversight of citizens’ digital lives. This development has far-reaching implications for privacy and digital rights, both within China and globally.

Additional Resources

For further insights, check:

References

  1. Washington Post (2025). “China’s Digital ID System: A New Era of Surveillance”. The Washington Post. Retrieved 2025-07-24. ↩︎

  2. Bugfeature (2025). “Digital GULAG in China”. Telegram. Retrieved 2025-07-24. ↩︎

  3. Roskomnadzor (2025). “Statement on China’s Digital ID System”. Roskomnadzor. Retrieved 2025-07-24. ↩︎

Cybersecurity & Data Protection, Cybersecurity
cybersecurity digital id online surveillance
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