Harsher punishment for leaking personal information

BEIJING - China may impose economic and civil punishments, in addition to criminal penalties, on those found guilty of leaking citizens' personal information, according to a draft amendment that will be voted on by China's top legislature Saturday.

Individuals, government personnel and the working staff of institutions such as banks, hospitals and telecommunication offices will be fined for leaking personal information, states a draft to be submitted to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) for approval.

Civil penalties or compensation may be applied if the offenses are damaging to those whose information is leaked, according to the draft amendment.

According to a previous version reviewed by the NPC Standing Committee on Monday, offenders will be fined only in the case of illegal gains.

The earlier draft also stipulates that those who leak personal information will face criminal prosecution or detention, but without giving civil penalties to the offenders.

The NPC Standing Committee began its bimonthly session on Monday and will conclude it on Saturday.