Social Media Rule: China has recently implemented a law that has created a stir in the world of social media. Now, if any influencer wants to talk on serious topics like finance, health, education, or law, he will have to provide proof of degree or recognized qualification in that field. This new rule has come into effect from October 25 and its purpose is said to be to stop misinformation and misleading content online.
Strict rules apply for influencers
Under China’s new law, when any social media creator creates content related to health, law, education or finance, he will first have to prove his official qualification. This means that now influencers without degrees or licenses will not be able to discuss these topics openly.
There has been an online debate regarding this rule, some people are considering it as the right step while many are seeing it as a restriction on freedom of expression. This law has been prepared by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), which says that this step has been taken to protect the general public from misleading advice and false information.
New rules will also be applicable on social media platforms
This rule will apply not only to influencers but also to social media platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok), Weibo and Bilibili. These companies will now have to ensure that the creators present on their platforms have taken appropriate degree, certificate or training in the relevant field. Additionally, the platform must also ensure that the sources and context of the information given in the video or post are clearly stated.
AI and advertisements also banned in content
According to the new law, if an influencer uses AI-generated material or any research study in his content, he will have to clearly state this in the video or post. Apart from this, CAC has also banned advertisements related to medical products, health foods and supplements.
Its purpose is to stop hidden promotions in the name of educational content. The move aims to increase transparency and accountability online so that viewers can know whether the information they are being given is authentic or not.
Mixed reactions from people
Mixed reactions are being seen on social media regarding this law. Some users say that this is a step taken at the right time so that only knowledgeable and qualified people will give opinion on serious issues on the platform. One user wrote on Weibo, “Now the time has come that only real experts should give information to the public.”
Many people believe that this law is an attack on the freedom of free expression. “Now it seems we have to get a license even to give opinions,” said a Beijing-based content creator. Critics say this would give the government too much power to decide who qualifies as an “expert” and who does not.
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