China Requires Influencers To Have Certificates If They Want To Discuss Sensitive Content

Illustration of social media (photo: Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) applies a new law that requires online content creators or commonly called influencers, to have certain certifications if they want to create content about sensitive topics.

The regulations, which take effect from October 25, mandate that creators who wish to discuss medicine, law, education, or finance must provide proof of their expertise through titles, certification, or professional credentials.

Regulators then also emphasize the platform should emphasize influencers that they are responsible for ensuring the scientific accuracy and asylumbility of their content.

Where the creator must clearly state when the information comes from the study or include elements produced by AI.

The CAC says that this regulation was made with the aim of fighting disinformation and protecting the public from miscontaining or potentially harmful content.

Launching from NetIInfluencer, this professional certification requirement comes amid the wider efforts of the Chinese government to regulate online content and public sentiment that is widespread in the country.

In fact, platforms in the country themselves, including Douyin (China's TikTok), Bilibili, and Weibo, must now verify influencer credentials and ensure content includes the right quotes.