China Races Into Cyber Totalitarianism With Tightened Internet Rules: Experts

A screen shows a rolling feed of new generic top-level domain names (gTLDs) that have been applied for during a press conference hosted by ICANN in central London, on June 13, 2012. The U.S. intention to relinquish control of ICANN opens the door for China to gain greater control over the internet. Andrew Cowie/AFP/GettyImages

China’s cyber watchdog issued new rules on internet users and outbound data transfers that become effective in August and September respectively. Experts believe the regime’s racing into the age of digital surveillance will only facilitate the collapse of its economy.

The new regulations refine the regime’s firm grip on personal data and livelihood, and the operations of private enterprises.