Chinese government tightens grip on cyber security

A recently passed law in China will see national security services be given tighter control over numerous aspects of daily life.

‘National security’ is defined in the legislation as covering anything from religion to finance and cyber security. The state controlled media said that the move would protect  the public’s fundamental interests.

The new law is just one of a number of policies from President Xi Jinping that has resulted in concern from international governments, human rights groups, and businesses. The country’s government is given permission by the new rule to take whatever steps it deems necessary to protect Chinese sovereignty.

A part of the law, which was passed by National People’s Congress, is intended to see information systems and infrastructure controllable and secure. However, Martin Patience, from the BBC and currently based in Beijing, said that critics believe the legislation is too extreme a measure.

He added that a number of foreign technology companies have expressed concern that the law will see them have no choice but to provide the authorities with sensitive data.

Meanwhile, lawyer Zhang Xuezhong said that the new law is a declaration of ideology that will enable cultural censorship, as well as a crackdown on those who oppose the state. He said:

“Technically speaking, the law is awful, as it is difficult to enforce it on individuals and companies.”

The UK may not have any plans to implement such a law in the near future, but there is still work to be done in increasing security. Businesses offering cyber security jobs to those equipped to deal with cybercrime would be a great step.