Dirty dancing grabs the attention of China’s cyberspace regulators

Dirty dancing grabs the attention of China's cyberspace regulators

November 3, 2023 at 03:52PM

China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC) has punished Alibaba-owned search engine Quark and livestreaming platform NetEase for vulgar content. Quark was fined ¥500,000 and NetEase had to suspend updates on a dancing content channel for seven days. The CAC requires platforms to protect minors from questionable content starting January 1, 2024. Social media platforms in China will now require influencers with over 500,000 followers to use their real names, raising concerns about privacy.

Key Takeaways from the Meeting Notes:

1. China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC) has punished Alibaba-owned search engine Quark and livestreaming platform NetEase for content deemed vulgar. Quark was fined ¥500,000 and NetEase was required to suspend updates on a dancing content channel for seven days.

2. Quark search results displayed obscene and pornographic information and recommended such keywords to users. NetEase was accused of broadcasting accounts with vulgar words, deeds, and pornographic material, as well as linking to such content on its home screen.

3. The fines followed the CAC’s announcement of stricter rules for platforms to protect minors from questionable content, effective from January 1st, 2024. The CAC referred to minors as “internet natives” and stressed the need to safeguard them from risks like illegal information, personal data breaches, addiction, and cyberbullying.

4. Platforms are required to create a kids mode or establish windows of time during which they won’t display potentially upsetting content for young users.

5. Major social media platforms, including WeChat, Doyin, Baidu, and Sina Weibo, will now require influencers with over 500,000 followers to use their real names. This move aims to enhance accountability but has raised concerns about privacy rights.

Please note that these are the key points from the meeting notes. If you need any further information or clarification, feel free to ask.

Full Article