The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has unveiled draft regulations concerning the utilization of facial recognition technology, as reported by the CNBC on August 8. The proposed rules outline that facial recognition technology should only be used when there is a specific purpose and adequate necessity. In adherence to these rules, all entities currently using the technology in a public space, or those processing facial recognition data for over 10,000 individuals, are mandated to register with their local internet regulator within a span of 30 working days. Moreover, these entities will be required to delineate their purpose for using the technology and elucidate their strategies for managing and safeguarding individual data.

Facial recognition systems have been extensively integrated into various public domains across China, including airports, hotels, shopping malls, and even public restrooms, to combat issues like toilet paper theft. Despite the recognition of facial recognition as a sophisticated approach to crime prevention and convenience enhancement, concerns have emerged due to the excessive deployment of this technology, raising alarms about potential data breaches and invasions of privacy. In response, the draft regulations request that building management should not use facial recognition as the only way for people to enter or exit, and businesses are prohibited from mandating facial recognition as a requirement for accessing enhanced services. In addition, the draft regulations also advocate for the consideration of non-biometric identification as an alternative to facial recognition technology, particularly if it is equally effective for the intended purpose.

Sources:

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/08/china-releases-plans-to-restrict-facial-recognition-technology.html

http://www.cac.gov.cn/2023-08/08/c_1693064670537413.htm

https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3230401/china-tighten-rules-use-facial-recognition-technology

https://www.scmp.com/tech/policy/article/3143023/you-have-choice-chinas-top-court-empowers-people-say-no-facial