Draft law orders online map makers to protect personal data

Legislators are discussing a law change that would make tech companies that make online maps, such as Baidu, responsible for protecting any personal data they collect or use.

A draft amendment to the Surveying and Mapping Law was submitted to the ongoing bimonthly session of the National People's Congress Standing Committee for a second reading on Monday.

The changes, if approved, would also cover other companies and institutions that collect, use or share geological information.

Governments and the media are also required in the draft to enhance public awareness of China's territory, while related educational elements will be introduced in primary and middle schools.

Zhang Delin, the vice-minister of land and resources, said after the draft's first reading in November that the regulations on surveying and mapping are out of date, "as technological advances have changed the way people interact with and access data".

He said some geological information is not utilized effectively, and that some even present security risks.

caoyin@chinadaily.com.cn