Technology has created a medium which is STILL creating problems for legislatures. The Internet, cell phones, Smart phones, Even things as simple as wireless networks have created all kinds of new problems, which require a ruling in one way or another. China's new approach towards cell phones is a significant development worth watching in days to come, as it deals with a large number of these issues, all at once.
This article details how China is now going to force all cell phone users to register their names along with their numbers, allowing them to know which cell phone number belongs to whom. The stated reason for this is to simply cut back on spam, a large problem in today's technological environment. But while spam is a problem, with a large scale, it is not in and of itself a large Issue, with dramatic consequences. Spam is, after all, mostly an annoyance.
This has led to speculation about more sinister motives, and the potential side effects this policy will bring. With all phones registered, China (known for it's censorship) will now have access to information about dissenters should they use Cell phones to convey their messages. Another concern is the potential for a black market to arise based around legally registered numbers. And then the technological battle will begin as hackers try to circumvent the block being placed on non-registered users, reminiscent of the Black Sunday style back and forth cable battles that have been going on for years.
What is planned on paper appears simple, regulations to reduce spam, but the reality of these changes could be quite different. Sadly, we will have to wait to see just how this plays out, as cutting off service to those who are not registered is not due to kick into effect until 2013.
Article: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/02/world/asia/02china.html?src=un&feedurl=http%3A%2F%2Fjson8.nytimes.com%2Fpages%2Ftechnology%2Findex.jsonp
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