Chinese citizens will soon be required to use facial recognition in order to sign up for internet services or get a new mobile number.

Beginning December 1, says a news report, "the new legislation is part of China's wider efforts to keep close tabs on its citizens and monitor their activities and behaviors."

The new legislation will also ban residents from transferring their mobile numbers to other people. According to the report, China appears to be the first country to require facial ID to sign up for mobile and internet services.