We often receive suggestions and advice from influencers on different social media platforms on various subjects such as finance, health, law, and geopolitics. There are numerous channels and handles where some influencers share their advice without having any expertise. Now, in China, such influencers may no longer be able to continue. The Chinese government has taken a stern stance on the issue and restricted them from commenting on “professional and serious matters.”
The Chinese government has introduced a law that bars fake influencers who do not have expertise, preventing them from sharing their views.
According to a report published by India Today, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) issued the guidelines, titled “Regulations on the Accountability of Internet Content Creators for Professional Topics.” It has mandated that people must have educational qualifications such as degrees or state-recognized certificates in fields related to finance, law, education, and health.
The authorities also mentioned strict action against violators, ranging from content takedown and account suspension to a fine of 100,000 Yuan, which is approximately $14,000.
China is likely to become the first nation to bring such a law in order to curb misinformation on social media platforms.
Social media users reacted to the law, and a few shared their thoughts against it. They called it “communist absurdity” and the “North Korea-ification” of China.
