Is getting a cyber ID mandatory?

No. Under the 2025 Measures, applying for a network number and credential is voluntary, though it is being integrated across major platforms.

Does the platform see my real name when I use the cyber ID?

No. The platform receives only the non-identifying network number; verification happens against MPS records that the state retains access to.

🇨🇳 China · Government login

National Network Identity Authentication

National Network Identity Authentication Public Service (cyber ID)

China's National Network Identity Authentication service issues an online cyber ID (a network number and network credential) that maps to a citizen's real identity held by the MPS. Platforms verify users via a non-identifying token instead of collecting real names and ID numbers. Building on the CTID platform piloted in 2018, the formal public service launched in July 2025 and is voluntary.

What it does

Online authenticationIdentity verification / KYCSelective attribute sharingBiometric authentication

Country:🇨🇳 China

Type:Government login

Status:Live

Launched:2025

Issuer:Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC)

Who can get it:PRC citizens and internet users (minors 14-17 with guardian supervision)

Format

Mobile appNumber

Identity attributes

Network number (non-identifying token)Network credentialMaps to MPS-held real ID without disclosing it

Authentication methods

NFC read of physical ID cardFacial recognition (enrollment)Credential / password

Common use cases

Real-name verification for apps and platformsGovernment servicesEducation / examsHealthcare pilots

Standards

Cybersecurity Law (2017)Data Security Law (2021)PIPL (2021)

Coverage

~16 million app downloads and ~6 million users issued network IDs by mid-2025

Interoperability

Domestic

Privacy and trust

The stated purpose is data minimization so platforms verify users via a token, but critics warn it centralizes real-name internet activity under MPS and CAC, giving the state a single point of visibility into online accounts.

Official source

https://www.cac.gov.cn/

National Network Identity Authentication: frequently asked questions

Is getting a cyber ID mandatory?: No. Under the 2025 Measures, applying for a network number and credential is voluntary, though it is being integrated across major platforms.
Does the platform see my real name when I use the cyber ID?: No. The platform receives only the non-identifying network number; verification happens against MPS records that the state retains access to.

Educational reference, not official guidance. Confirm current details with the issuing authority. See China data protection law · all China schemes · identity verification vendors