China Proposes New Rules to Regulate Digital Humans Online
China’s cyberspace regulator released draft regulations on Friday to oversee the development of digital humans online. The proposal introduces strict labelling requirements and restrictions aimed at preventing misleading content, particularly for younger users. These measures reflect growing oversight as artificial intelligence technologies expand rapidly across the country.
Mandatory Labelling and Youth Protections
Under the proposed rules, all content featuring digital humans must include clear and prominent labels identifying them as virtual entities. This requirement aims to reduce confusion and ensure transparency for users interacting with such content.
In addition, the regulations prohibit digital humans from offering virtual intimate relationships to individuals under 18. Authorities seek to prevent services that could encourage emotional dependency or addictive behaviour among minors. Therefore, platforms must actively monitor and restrict such interactions to comply with the guidelines.
Safeguards on Data and Identity Use
The draft also introduces strict limitations on how digital humans are created and used. Developers cannot use another person’s personal information without explicit consent. This provision directly addresses concerns about misuse of identity and unauthorised digital replication.
Moreover, the rules ban the use of digital humans to bypass identity verification systems. This measure strengthens broader efforts to maintain control over digital identities and prevent misuse of emerging technologies.
Content Restrictions and Platform Responsibility
The regulations impose firm boundaries on the type of content digital humans can generate or share. They explicitly prohibit material that threatens national security, incites subversion, promotes secession, or undermines national unity.
At the same time, service providers must actively limit harmful content. This includes sexually suggestive material, depictions of cruelty or horror, and discriminatory messaging based on ethnicity or region. Platforms are expected to implement systems that detect and manage such risks effectively.
Furthermore, providers are encouraged to intervene when users display signs of self-harm or suicidal tendencies. They should offer appropriate support or guidance, highlighting an increased emphasis on user wellbeing within digital environments.
Balancing Innovation With Control
China continues to push for widespread adoption of artificial intelligence across its economy, as outlined in its latest five-year policy blueprint. However, this expansion occurs alongside tighter regulatory frameworks designed to ensure safety and alignment with national priorities.
The proposed rules aim to address gaps in governance within the digital human sector. Authorities describe the issue as extending beyond industry standards into a broader strategic concern. It now involves cyberspace security, public interest, and the long-term development of the digital economy.
By establishing clear boundaries, the regulations seek to guide the responsible growth of digital humans while maintaining oversight in an evolving technological landscape.
With inputs from Reuters
