China has introduced a new measure to combat misinformation, requiring influencers sharing information on sensitive topics to hold a degree in that area.

The rule, which came into effect on 25 October under the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), is reportedly aimed at reducing online misinformation and protecting social media users from potentially harmful advice or guidance.

Influencers discussing subjects such as medicine, law, education, or finance must provide proof of their expertise, whether through a professional licence or degree. Platforms including Douyin (China’s version of TikTok), Bilibili, and Weibo are tasked with verifying these credentials.

The CAC has also banned advertising for medical products and services, such as health foods and supplements, in an effort to curb promotions disguised as educational content.

So you’re saying I can’t continue promoting dick pills that might cause people’s organs to boil? alex-no-supplements

  • LeeeroooyJeeenkiiins [none/use name]@hexbear.net
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    6 months ago

    I’m really torn here between “this is unbelievably based and would do incalculable good if applied worldwide, and in fact if this were done in the U.S. 20 years ago we’d be living in an entirely different future” and being big butt mad because I have a lot of opinions and hate being shut up. Also even though i’m just a biology degree dropout that doesn’t mean I know nothin, yknow