CHINA TO BOOST POWERS OF SPY AGENCIES
US fears law can be used to suppress dissent, silence foreign groups
BEIJING to China to postpone a newly-adopted cybersecurity law.
They warned it could violate Beijing’s free-trade commitments.
Chinese officials maintain tighter data controls are needed to prevent terrorism and antigovernment activity.
The latest proposal would allow authorities to use electronic surveillance techniques and seize vehicles and real estate.
It calls for collaboration on intelligence operations at all levels of Chinese society, including the military, public institutions and citizens.
The law also states that intelligence operatives who abuse their powers will be subject to prosecution.
Authorities here last month began offering cash rewards of up to 500,000 yuan (RM319,000) for citizens who turn in foreign spies. The proposed law allows for rewards for “major contributions” to intelligence activities to be offered nationwide. AP