China promotes cloud computing service safety assessment

Chinese authorities have released a guideline on assessing the safety of cloud computing services, according to the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC).

The guideline, jointly issued by the CAC, National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and Ministry of Finance, aims to increase the safety of cloud computing services for users of Party and government organs and key information infrastructure operators.

The safety assessment focuses on the credibility of cloud platform operators and their operation, the background of staff of cloud service providers and the safety of cloud platforms' supply chains, according to the guideline.

Cloud service providers can officially submit applications for cloud computing service safety assessment from Sept 1 and the assessment results will be valid for up to three years.