Google Maps a threat to national security? China revises mapping law to address concerns

Are Google satellite maps a threat to China's national security?

This was a question raised by a journalist at a recent press conference held by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), after the Committee passed a revised surveying and mapping law on Thursday.

Press conference held by the Standing Committee of the NPC. [Photo: China.com.cn]

The journalist said that since Google formed its maps by surveying and mapping China's geography, transportation and construction through satellite imagery and other means, would this pose a threat to China's security in terms of geo-information?

"The controversies surrounding Google Maps is also a concern," said Song Chaozhi, Deputy Director of the State Bureau of Surveying and Mapping.

"Because of the advanced techniques we have today, not only can satellites in the sky obtain lots of high-resolution images of China, but coordinates on these images can also be obtained. These problems are usually addressed through diplomatic negotiations, as many countries have done,” Song added. 

"Some countries asked Google to lower the resolution of its maps because of the possible infringement on personal privacy such as showing a woman wearing little clothing; and to delete disputed areas on the map," said Song.

New version of mapping law adopted

The revised surveying and mapping law was passed on Thursday, after a second reading at the bi-monthly session of the Standing Committee of the NPC, China's top law-making body.

NPC members reviewing a draft amendment on the existing mapping law. [Photo: Xinhua]

The legislation intends to protect the security of China's geographic information and raise public awareness of national territory. 

Specifically, China is trying to strengthen punishments for foreigners and foreign organizations involved in illegal geological surveys or mapping and illegal acquisition of geological data in the country. 

It requires foreign non-governmental organizations to use safe, reliable technology and equipment, properly manage navigation and positioning reference stations, and supervise internet mapping services. 

Foreigners or foreign organizations that wish to do surveying or otherwise collect geological data should get a permit from the State Council and military authorities, while those involved in long-term mapping should cooperate with the nation's government departments.  

A screenshot from Google Maps. [Photo: CGTN]

Should they not abide by the law, a fine of at least 100,000 yuan (14,510 US Dollars) will be sought from the violators, which has doubled from previous penalties.

Song said at the meeting that illegal mapping involving foreigners had been frequent in the past few years. The amendment is designed to curb such misconduct. 

In a case disclosed by the administration in 2010, a Japanese citizen was found to be illegally collecting geological information in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region while professing to be there for travel and environmental investigations. 

Speculation of a second possible aircraft carrier dock to be built in Sanya, Hainan Province sparked from examining bridges and dams on Google Maps by foreign media. [Photo: Google]

"We're planning to improve the guidelines in accordance with the amendment, which will take effect on July 1," Song said at the press conference. 

Drones behind flight delays at Chengdu airport

Song also addressed concerns over recent flights delays caused by a number of drones around the airport in Chengdu, Sichuan Province.

About 22 flights scheduled to land at the airport were forced to land at nearby airports because some drones operated by amateurs caused disruption to take-off and landing procedures.

Song said at the press conference the revised law also incorporates restrictions on how these drones should be used by private institutions and individuals.

(With inputs from Xinhua, China Daily and Sina)