Chinese citizens can now find out if they are within 500 meters of someone who has debts as a province in northern China reportedly produced a "social credit" app that could be used to tip authorities.
According to Business Insider, state media revealed that the new application is meant to help authorities reach debtors who appear "capable of paying their debts." The app has been dubbed a "map of deadbeat debtors."
People who are interested in the app can access it through WeChat. The app will let users know if they are near someone who has debt. A screenshot of the app's usage has also revealed that the debtor's exact location will be shown to the user, which will make it easier for concerned citizens to provide information to authorities.
As of the moment, some aspects of the app are unclear including the gauging factors that would make one a debtor. It is also unclear if the Chinese app will display the debtor's name, age, and other identity details.
Beijing has been encouraging citizens to increase their trustworthiness through the country's social credit system. The app is said to have been created as part of the program that aims to judge whether a person is trustworthy or not.
Earlier this month, a Forbes report noted that China's social credit system is based on how "orderly" or "socially conforming" a person is. This scoring system is different from the usual factors that affect one's credit credibility in other countries.
Ever since news of the app emerged, a debate was ignited. Some believe that the application is a little bit too much for those who want privacy. The debates have also spurred talk among people opposing China's social credit system as a whole.
Despite some opposition, other citizens have shown full support for the system, especially if it can help pinpoint capable debtors who otherwise refuse to pay their debts. Some lending companies have also approved of the idea, explaining that the app could help them find out if a certain person who wants to borrow money can be trusted enough.
The Higher People's Court of Hebei, the group that developed the app, has insisted that the app is meant to encourage collaboration among whistleblowers and authorities. It could also encourage other well-paying citizens to keep up the good work.
According to China Daily, a court spokesman said of the new app, "It's a part of our measures to enforce our rulings and create a socially credible environment."
