Vanity app goes against modern governance

Using digital technology, China has developed a health code system to facilitate its epidemic control work that has proved to be of practical value in safeguarding public health, and it has been accepted as such by the public. However, the quick demise of Suzhou's "civility code" following online outcries－just days after it was launched in a trial last week－underscores people's rising fears of intrusion into their private lives due to technical advances in such areas as big data and artificial intelligence.

The civility code, which was accessed via a smartphone app, aimed to draw a "personal portrait" for residents in the city in Jiangsu province to help them cultivate good behavior in daily life, according to local officials. Scores were given based on how well people followed traffic rules, participated in community services, sorted garbage and did not waste food. Those with a higher score could enjoy perks such as discounts for public transport or film tickets.

This may sound good, and it may have been well-intentioned by local officials. Yet the widespread opposition to the personal behavior scoring system shows that the end does not necessarily justify the means.