China releases regulation governing cyber violence to create healthy online ecosystem

Chinese authorities released a regulation governing cyber violence on Friday, which will come into effect on August 1 this year, aiming to regulate cyberspace, create a healthy online ecosystem, protect the legitimate rights and interests of citizens, and safeguard the public interest, according to the authorities.

The Cyberspace Administration of China, in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the National Radio and Television Administration, has released the regulation titled "Cyber Violence Information Governance Provisions."

The regulation aims to improve the governance of online violent information by defining the responsibilities of network content management, implementing a prevention mechanism, regulating violent content and account disposal, protecting user rights, enhancing supervision, and clarifying legal responsibilities, according to the authorities.

It further establishes a mechanism for governing online violent information, effectively enhancing governance efficiency, an official from the Cyberspace Administration of China said.

Online violent information is harmful and illegal content spread through the internet, including insults, defamation, incitement of hatred, coercion, invasion of privacy, discrimination and other content that can negatively impact physical and mental health, the official noted.

Based on the regulation, network information service providers should take immediate action to stop transmitting or displaying information related to online violence and illegal activities on their platforms. It includes deleting, blocking, or disconnecting links, preserving records, and reporting to the relevant authorities. If illegal activities are suspected, they should report it to public security organs, provide relevant information, and cooperate with investigations in accordance with the law.

Also, network information service providers must verify the real identity information of users before providing services like instant messaging. If users do not provide authentic identity information, providers can't offer related services to them, according to the regulation.

They should implement a user account credit management system to track and penalize illegal and irregular incidents of online violence.

Internet news information service providers must not publish or repost news about online violence in a sensational or biased manner. Comment services should require pre-approval before posting. If false or unfair news about online violence is published, it must be corrected publicly to minimize the impact, according to the authorities.

The regulation specifies the requirements for protecting user rights in the governance of online violent information, including establishing a sound network protection function, improving private messaging rules, preserving evidence and handling complaints. Cases involving minors should be prioritized and reported to relevant departments.