New Network Identity Authentication App Launched in the US

TapTechNews August 1st news, recently, some netizens noticed that the application "National Network Identity Authentication App (Authentication Version)" for applying for and using the "network number" and "network certificate" has been launched on multiple app stores.

After applying for the network certificate, users will get a virtual "network ID card", which can be authenticated to the Internet platforms that require real-name authentication without the need to enter information such as name and ID number.

TapTechNews tested that applying for the network certificate requires a mobile phone with NFC function (iOS or Android), conduct NFC identification of documents and face recognition, and then associate the mobile phone number, set an 8-digit digital password, and it can be successfully applied.

For minors aged 8 and above to apply for the network certificate, then the guardian's identity verification is required:

Chinese citizens who are at least 8 years old but less than 14 years old need the guardian's authorization and consent every time they use the National Network Identity Authentication App; Chinese citizens who are at least 14 years old but less than 18 years old can independently use the National Network Identity Authentication App after the guardian's authorization and consent until the authorization is cancelled.

At present, the national network identity authentication public service is in the pilot stage, and a total of 67 pilot apps and scenarios have been launched, including some government affairs apps and Internet apps, such as the National Government Service Platform, China Railway 12306, Taobao, WeChat, Xiaohongshu, QQ, etc. TapTechNews attaches the following official support list:

In July this year, the Ministry of Public Security, the Cyberspace Administration of China and others drafted the "Administrative Measures for the National Network Identity Authentication Public Service (Draft for Comment)". Based on the national network identity authentication public service, when natural persons need to register and verify the real identity information according to law in Internet services, they can voluntarily apply for and use the "network number" and "network certificate" through the National Network Identity Authentication App for non-explicit registration and verification without providing explicit personal identity information to Internet platforms, etc.. Thus, it can minimize the excessive collection and retention of citizens' personal information by Internet platforms on the pretext of implementing the "real-name system".

TapTechNews also found that the "National Network Identity Authentication App (Authentication Version)" has been on the shelves as early as 2023, and the recent draft for comment has made this app the focus of public attention.