China been known for its strict censorship that makes it difficult for foreign technology companies to operate in the world's most populous country of over 1.35 billion people.
Now, a new law issued by the Chinese government will extend its strict internet surveillance efforts to mobile apps, targeting players like Apple. However, Google does not currently operate its app store in China.
The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has imposed a new regulation on mobile app distributors that requires both app stores and app developers to closely monitor users and keep a record of their activities for at least 60 days.
The new legislation was introduced with the intention of combating issues such as terrorism, pornography, violence, financial fraud and the distribution of malicious content.
However, this new move by the Chinese government will strengthen its control over the internet, especially over mobile applications used for private encrypted communications.
App stores and developers, whether located inside or outside the country, will now have to verify the identities of their users by registering them with their real name and will have to keep logs of their activity for at least 60 days.
The proposed legislation, which will come into effect on August 1, also requires close monitoring of users to help identify people distributing prohibited content.
However, the law will also prevent mobile apps from requesting unnecessary access to a user's camera, microphone and contacts.
