China’s banks will more thoroughly check identity cards when providing services

Beijing. April 10. Silkroadnews - The People’s Bank of China has launched a pilot program for more thorough verification of identity cards, China Plus reports.
The program is aimed at preventing the opening of bank accounts or the transfer of financial assets using forged or stolen identity cards or documents belonging to other people. Starting on Monday, the pilot program will be launched at China’s state-owned banks in Tianjin, Shanxi Province, Fujian Province, as well as in several other places.
The pilot program will also conduct a more thorough check of mainland travel permits for residents of Hong Kong and Macau, mainland travel permits for residents of Taiwan and permanent residence permits for foreigners. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, the Bank of China and China Merchants Bank in Shanghai, Fujian and Shenzhen are taking part in the pilot project.
The project, as expected, will be gradually expanded throughout the country. ID checks will be made when opening or changing accounts in one of the participating banks. Attempts to use an expired ID card will be rejected, and banks will be required to report to the police about attempts to use fake ID card or one belonging to another person.
If someone wants to question the outcome of the verification, they can lodge an application with local branches of the central bank so that their ID can be verified by the Ministry of Public Security and local public security institutions. Individuals can also apply for verification directly with the ID card service center of the Ministry of Public Security, the report reads.