China’s Ministry of Public Security has launched an innovative initiative called RealDID, leveraging blockchain technology to verify the real-name identities of its vast population. The blockchain-based Service Network (BSN), China’s national-level blockchain initiative, is spearheading this project. RealDID aims to provide a secure and efficient means for users to register and log into websites anonymously using decentralized identifier (DID) addresses and private keys. This system ensures that business data and transactions remain disconnected from personal information.
Public supervision for influencers with 500K or more followers
Reported by the state media, in line with this initiative, China’s top social media platforms, including WeChat, Sina Weibo, Douyin, Kuaishou, Bilibili, and Xiaohongshu, now require content creators with substantial followings to publicly display their real names or those of their financial backers. This policy, affecting creators with over 500,000 or 1 million followers, aims to enhance credibility and enable public supervision.
The world’s first national-level real-name decentralized identity system
The RealDID service is distinguished as the world’s first national-level real-name decentralized identity system. This development marks a significant leap in the application of blockchain technology for large-scale identity verification, positioning China at the forefront of digital identity management innovation.
BSN China, responsible for running this initiative, operates under the National Information Center in collaboration with major Chinese technology companies such as China Mobile and China UnionPay. BSN Global, a separate entity, manages its international operations. This structure highlights the broad scope and ambitious nature of the project.
This development will likely be closely monitored by data-privacy advocates and international observers, given its implications for personal data management and surveillance in a digital age.