China Cracks Down: Fake Experts Banned From Social Media
Misinformation is difficult to decipher in the age of social media. In China, the internet regulator said it was enforcing more laws banning social media influencers from sharing advice on finance, medicine, law and education on social media unless they have the professional qualifications to back up their content.
Chinese social media platforms, such as Bilibili, Doyin (Chinese TikTok) and Weibo, must follow new regulations set by the Cyberspace Administration of China on Saturday.
Creators will be required to share studies to support their information and reveal whether they used AI to generate any of their content.
Don’t miss any of our unbiased technical content and lab reviews. Add CNET as your preferred Google source.
The CAC also prohibits advertising for medical supplements and services, as well as similar publications that pose as educational content to sell a product. Before this regulation, China launched a two-month campaign to eliminate pessimistic, hostile or violent content.
China has been criticized for its attempt to control online content and public opinion. But it wouldn’t be the first country to enforce laws regarding social media policy.
Spain implemented its own influencer law in 2024, which requires influencers on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok earning more than 300,000 euros to be transparent about brand partnerships and sponsorships. Influencers must also comply with copyright laws and restrictions on targeting minors with content related to tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
A study conducted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization found that only 36.9% of influencers verify that the content they share is true before posting it.
This is especially troubling since a 2025 Pew Research Center report found that one in five American young adults get their news via TikTok.
A UNESCO representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
