In China, a privacy regulation for online platforms that collect users’ personal information comes into force tomorrow, which prohibits apps from denying services to those who do not agree to share unnecessary personal information. The regulation covers 39 types of apps, affecting areas such as navigation, car booking, instant messaging and shopping.
The applications have brought greater convenience to the Chinese people and have fostered China’s social and economic development. However, some have collected personal information beyond the limits of the restrictions, claiming that it is mandatory for authorization. App operators should conduct a self-assessment of their collection and use of personal information before tomorrow and promptly correct any behavior that goes against the regulation.
The guidelines were jointly introduced by the Cyberspace Administration of China, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Public Security and the State Administration for Market Regulation.