China Tightens Privacy Controls on Smart Cameras with Surveillance State Security Labels

China’s top internet, technology, and security regulators have jointly issued new cybersecurity labeling rules for consumer internet-connected cameras, establishing a three-tiered rating system aimed at protecting user privacy and data security. The regulations, introduced by the Cyberspace Administration of China, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the Ministry of Public Security, apply strictly to standalone, internet-enabled cameras purchased and used by individuals or organizations for audio and video collection. Commercial cameras used for public safety and law enforcement are excluded from the directive. Under the new rules, consumer connected cameras must feature a cybersecurity label with a three-year…