Report Claims China Monitored Over 1.4 Billion People

A report published by a US-based media outlet has alleged that China collected and maintained surveillance records on more than 1.4 billion people, including both its own citizens and foreign nationals who visited the country. The report cites cybersecurity researcher Mark Hoffer, who reportedly discovered an online database named "Dynamic Control Platform for Overseas Personnel." While examining China's surveillance systems in January, Hoffer found his own personal information, including his photograph, passport number, and the mobile number he had used during a previous visit to China.

The database allegedly contained detailed records of foreign nationals who had visited Zhangjiakou City, including individuals from India, Pakistan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Morocco, and Sudan. The report claims that authorities tracked individuals using surveillance cameras and phone signals, recording travel patterns, transportation details, and other personal information even after they had left China. The report also linked the platform to a company supplying surveillance technology to Chinese police. China has not issued an official response to these allegations.