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Chinese Cybersecurity Law (CSL)

View Law Text
Maximum Fine
¥1M
Scope
National
Regulator
CAC
Enacted
2017

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Overview

The Cybersecurity Law establishes fundamental requirements for network operations security and data protection in China, affecting both domestic and foreign organizations operating within Chinese territory.

Key Facts

  • Effective since June 1, 2017
  • Enforced by Cyberspace Administration of China
  • Includes critical infrastructure protection requirements

Key Principles

Network Operations Security

Requirements for secure operation of networks and prevention of cybersecurity incidents.

Requirements

  • Implement security protection systems
  • Monitor network operations
  • Prevent cyber attacks
  • Maintain network logs
  • Regular security testing

Examples

  • Security system implementation
  • Network monitoring protocols
  • Incident prevention measures
  • Log management systems

User Rights Protection

Safeguarding network users' rights and personal information.

Requirements

  • Protect user privacy
  • Implement real-name systems
  • Secure user data
  • Handle user complaints
  • Transparent data practices

Examples

  • Privacy protection measures
  • User verification systems
  • Data security protocols
  • Complaint handling procedures

Critical Infrastructure Protection

Special protection requirements for critical information infrastructure.

Requirements

  • Identify critical systems
  • Enhanced security measures
  • Regular risk assessments
  • Emergency response plans
  • Government coordination

Examples

  • Infrastructure classification
  • Security enhancement plans
  • Assessment procedures
  • Emergency protocols

Compliance Requirements

Network Security Requirements

Implementation of multi-level network security protection scheme.

Implementation Steps

  • Implement security protection systems
  • Establish internal security management
  • Appoint security personnel
  • Conduct regular security assessments
  • Monitor network operations

Required Documentation

  • Security system documentation
  • Management procedures
  • Personnel records
  • Assessment reports
  • Monitoring logs

Data Protection Measures

Requirements for protecting network data and user information.

Implementation Steps

  • Classify data by security level
  • Implement encryption measures
  • Establish access controls
  • Create backup systems
  • Monitor data access

Required Documentation

  • Data classification scheme
  • Encryption protocols
  • Access control policies
  • Backup procedures
  • Access logs

Security Incident Response

Procedures for handling and reporting cybersecurity incidents.

Implementation Steps

  • Create incident response plan
  • Form response team
  • Establish reporting procedures
  • Conduct response drills
  • Document incidents

Required Documentation

  • Response plan
  • Team structure
  • Reporting templates
  • Drill records
  • Incident logs

Enforcement & Penalties

Administrative Penalties

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) can impose various administrative penalties for CSL violations.

Penalty Categories

Severe Violations
Up to ¥1M
For serious breaches of cybersecurity requirements
Business Suspension
Operations Halt
Suspension or revocation of business licenses
Website Blocking
Service Termination
Blocking of websites or services

Example Cases

Social Media Platform
¥800,000
2022 - Failure to implement real-name verification
Online Service Provider
¥500,000
2023 - Inadequate network security measures

Criminal Penalties

Serious violations may result in criminal prosecution.

Penalty Categories

Data Breaches
Criminal Detention
For severe data breaches affecting national security
Illegal Access
Up to 7 years imprisonment
For unauthorized access to critical information infrastructure
Information Theft
Criminal Prosecution
For theft or illegal provision of data

Example Cases

Infrastructure Attack
Criminal Charges
2023 - Attempted breach of critical infrastructure
Data Theft Case
5 years imprisonment
2022 - Theft of sensitive network data