An article in the NY Times focuses on the theft of identity and transcripts by unscrupulous local Chinese officials. Corrupt local officials have routinely seized land from farmers without compensation only to turn around and sell it to developers for favors or bribes. This is a new variation where a person’s identity and academic record is sold to someone else. For those still under the misconception that the average Chinese citizen lives in a functioning meritocracy with an equal application of justice, this article will be a rude awakening.