电子身份证 (diànzǐ shēnfènzhèng): Electronic identity authentication

China's first electronic "identity card" was issued in Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong province, on Monday.

The WeChat electronic identity authentication certificate is an electronic ID that provides legal identity authentication when real-name online registration is required, such as for online check-ins and sending and receiving express deliveries, as well as accessing some government services.

Using an eID means people don't need to carry their ID card all the time or provide a photocopy of their ID card to prove their identity. It is not only very convenient, but also reduces the risk of a stolen or lost ID card being used illegally.

The WeChat electronic identity authentication certificate is to be piloted in Guangdong before being promoted nationwide.

The wide application of electronic identity authentication for government services shows how fast the mobile communication technology and artificial intelligence technology are being adopted.

Such electronic identity authentication is expected to be applied more widely in the public sphere. And the government at various levels, as well as the service providers, should make efforts to guarantee the citizens' information security.