A NEWLY revised Chinese regulation requires online platforms with more than 1 million users to undergo a cybersecurity review when they seek initial public offerings (IPOs) in overseas markets.

Operators of critical information infrastructure that purchase network products and services, as well as network platform operators that conduct data-processing activities, will undergo a security review if their activities affect or may affect national security, the regulation says.

Regulators will assess whether the public listing of a company may lead to key information infrastructure, core data, important data or a large amount of personal information being affected, controlled or maliciously used by foreign governments, according to the new rule.

The cybersecurity review applications could lead to three outcomes, according to a statement issued by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC). First: No review would be required. Second: If the IPO does not affect national security, it may proceed. Third: If the IPO is found to affect national security, it will not be allowed.

The statement also noted that the move is intended to further ensure cyberspace and data security, and safeguard national security.

The revised regulation will enter into force Feb. 15, replacing the current 2020 version.

(Xinhua)