Blockchain Technology To Be Used By China To Verify Identities

China has recently introduced RealDID, a blockchain-based initiative aimed at verifying the identities of its 1.4 billion citizens. The move comes amid global apprehensions and heightened security and regulatory measures by the United States. 

Tightening security measures

Utilizing DID addresses and private keys, the service ensures the segregation of business data and personal details. In contrast to various social media platforms in China, which mandate real names for content creators with substantial followings, RealDID stands as the inaugural national-level real-name decentralized identity system in the world, according to the BSN (Blockchain Service Network).

BSN China, managed by the National Information Center, China Mobile, and China UnionPay, oversees domestic operations, while BSN Global handles international functions separately. Concurrently, a bipartisan U.S. bill proposes a new policy which could disallow federal officials to employ China-manufactured blockchains, such as iFinex, citing potential national security threats.

Issues still persist

Spearheaded by the Chinese Ministry of Public Security in collaboration with the Blockchain Service Network, RealDID enables users to register and access websites without disclosing personal information.

Still, despite the Chinese Institute of Forensic Science no longer being a part of the trade sanctions lists by the United States, which were designed to combat fentanyl trafficking, human rights concerns persist. In response to a circular by the National Narcotics Control Commission regarding the risks associated with foreign law enforcement, China has cautioned its chemical manufacturers against producing fentanyl precursors.