In an era marked by persistent insider threats, espionage activities, malicious software attacks, and escalating cyberwarfare, China is contemplating a gradual shift towards replacing human oversight with cutting-edge technology to enforce critical data security regulations. Under the banner of national security, the government, led by President Xi Jinping, is poised to develop specialized machines tasked with scrutinizing data processing and utilization in accordance with legislation that took effect in September 2021.
The crux of this strategy revolves around distinguishing sensitive data from general data, a complex task that Beijing aims to address with the implementation of machine intelligence.
The question that looms large is: What sets these newly devised machines apart from the existing generation of servers?
For now, this question remains somewhat enigmatic, awaiting the passage of time to provide a definitive response. However, a senior scientist, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the substantial volume of “Key Data” processing necessitates a unique level of intelligence. This is precisely where AI-powered machines will play a pivotal role—identifying, cataloging, monitoring, and reporting on all data, safeguarding against both existing and emerging threats within the ever-evolving cyber landscape.
For reference, “Key Data” denotes information generated within mainland China, which must be stored locally. Any data intended for transmission abroad, for processing and analysis, requires strict oversight and approval from data protection authorities.
This means that data generated through online services and applications, such as WhatsApp, must be retained locally and can only be transferred to foreign servers following a thorough security assessment by data oversight bodies.
In sectors like finance and healthcare, government scrutiny will be even more stringent, overseen by a dedicated panel of security experts appointed by the government.
So, what else can these machines bring to the table in the realm of data processing?
The answer lies in their unwavering dedication to their tasks, devoid of human biases, expectations, favors, concerns, and envy.
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