Previously, technology was used by opponents of power
China’s cyberspace regulator plans to issue new regulations restricting the use of wireless file-sharing features such as Bluetooth and Apple AirDrop for national security reasons.
The move comes after protesters in China used AirDrop during anti-government protests in October 2022 to share content around strict internet censorship. A few weeks later, Apple decided to limit the use of the AirDrop feature on devices in China.
The draft proposal was released last week by the China Cyberspace Administration. The purpose of the ordinance is to “maintain national security and the public interest” by regulating the use of short-range wireless communications such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and other technologies,” the bill says.
Attempts to publish or share “illegal or harmful information” will be reported violations to the regulator. Those who create and maintain such wireless networks should require users to provide their real names and other personal information. Providers must conduct a security assessment when launching any new applications or features that have the potential to “mobilize the public” or provide “public expression”.
Last year, some Chinese residents used AirDrop to distribute flyers and images challenging Xi Jinping’s re-election. In 2019, AirDrop, which is only effective over short distances, was especially popular with anti-government protesters in Hong Kong.
