China may require internet users
to register with their real names when signing up to network providers, state
media said today, extending a policy already in force with microblogs in a bid
to curb what officials call rumours and vulgarity.
A law
being discussed this week would mean people would have to present their
government-issued identity cards when signing contracts for fixed line and mobile
internet access, state-run newspapers said.
“The
law should escort the development of the internet to protect people’s
interest,” Communist Party mouthpiece the People’s Daily said in a front page
commentary, echoing similar calls carried in state media over the past
week.
“Only
that way can our internet be healthier, more cultured and safer.”
Many
users say the restrictions are clearly aimed at further muzzling the often
scathing, raucous - and perhaps most significantly, anonymous — online chatter
in a country where the Internet offers a rare opportunity for open
debate.
It
could also prevent people from exposing corruption online if they fear
retribution from officials, said some users.
It was
unclear how the rules would be different from existing regulations as state
media has provided only vague details and in practice customers have long had
to present identity papers when signing contracts with internet
providers.
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