China Aims to Bring Controversial Social Credit System to the Metaverse

China Aims to Bring Social Credit System to the Metaverse

China Mobile, a state-owned telecom firm, has proposed the creation of a “Digital Identity System” for users of online virtual worlds. This move indicates that China wants to extend its controversial social credit score system to virtual environments. The country aims to link a person’s natural and social characteristics to their digital ID and store this information permanently. China is currently leading the way in blockchain patent filings, with 90% of all blockchain patents worldwide. Critics have raised concerns that the social scoring scheme may lead to individuals being banned from certain services. China’s pursuit of the metaverse aligns with its broader blockchain and AI advancements.

Key Points:

China Mobile is proposing a “Digital Identity System” for users of online virtual worlds.
The country aims to link a person’s natural and social characteristics to their digital ID.
China holds 90% of all blockchain patents worldwide.
The social credit score system may result in individuals being banned from certain services.
China’s pursuit of the metaverse aligns with its broader advancements in blockchain and AI technologies.

Hot Take

China’s push to bring the social credit system to the metaverse is a significant development that raises concerns about privacy and individual freedoms. While the integration of social scoring in virtual worlds may have practical applications, it also has the potential for abuse and control. China’s dominance in blockchain patents and its focus on the metaverse position the country as a leader in the future of digital technology. However, this also raises questions about the global influence of China’s social scoring system and its impact on other countries’ approaches to social control.