China's Cyberspace Administration has published a draft law aimed at curbing cyberbullying, specifically including abuse enabled by artificial intelligence. The proposal would require platforms to enforce real-name verification, detect and report AI-generated harassment, and remove abusive content. Schools must add anti-cyberbullying education, and service providers that breach the rules could face fines, site shutdowns or license revocations. Public consultation on the draft runs until August 28.
China Unveils Draft Law to Crack Down on Cyberbullying — Including AI-Enabled Abuse
A sign above an office of the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) is seen in Beijing
Beijing, July 29 — China's Cyberspace Administration on Wednesday published a draft law designed to curb cyberbullying across the country, explicitly covering harassment aided or amplified by artificial intelligence. The move is part of broader efforts by Beijing to tighten oversight of online behaviour in the world's largest internet market.
Key Provisions
- The draft would apply to cyberbullying that takes place inside China and to organisations or individuals overseas who target people or entities in China.
- Online platforms would be required to verify the real identities of users before allowing them to post content or use instant messaging services.
- Platforms must trace, assess and report risks from content generated or spread using AI technology, remove or block abusive material, and report serious incidents to authorities.
- Schools would be required to include anti-cyberbullying education in their curricula to build awareness and resilience among students.
- Providers that violate the rules could face fines of up to 10 million yuan (about $1.5 million), the shutdown of websites or apps, or revocation of business licenses.
The regulator is inviting public comment on the draft through August 28. The proposal signals a push for stronger platform accountability and new obligations to manage risks created by AI tools that enable or amplify harassment.
Context and next steps: If adopted, the law would require platforms to strengthen moderation, identity verification and AI-risk monitoring systems. Enforcement options — from fines to suspensions and license revocations — underline Beijing's willingness to hold online service providers strictly accountable.
($1 = 6.7661 Chinese yuan renminbi)
Reporting by Ethan Wang and Ryan Woo; Editing by Hugh Lawson.
Help us improve.
