China to require mobile phone users to register real names

China's mobile phone users will have to register using their real names starting next year under rules, reports Forbes.

"The rules are designed to curb 'mobile phone-related crimes' such as text messaging of pornography, advertising for fake diplomas and illegal firearms, and false notifications of prize winnings, the report said, and will apply to new users and pre-paid cell phone users.

About half of the country's 400 mln mobile phone users pre-pay for their mobile service, and most are not required to register before buying a new phone number.

... Implementing the real-name registration could hit China's mobile telecom operators hard over the short term by resulting in fewer new users and increased operational costs. "

emily | 9:31 AM | News, Buzz |
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