New Delhi: Chinese regulators have proposed rules aimed at protecting minors who use AI companion services, the South China Morning Post reported. The draft regulations include content requirements, safety assessments and anti-addiction measures, as well as a ban on “virtual intimate relationship services” for users under 18.
Titled “Regulations on Safeguarding Minors’ Healthy and Safe Use of the Internet”, the draft prohibits online platforms from providing “virtual relatives or virtual companions” to minors. It would also bar AI platforms from offering services that induce addiction or harm, or which may affect minors’ physical and mental health.
“The key question in defining a ‘virtual intimate relationship’ is whether a service is designed to simulate or substitute for real family or partner relationships and build sustained emotional bonds through character settings and emotional guidance.”, He Qianggao, a lawyer and director at Geason Law Offices, told the South China Morning Post.
The rules would require AI platforms to improve their identification of minor users and prohibit them from using algorithms that induce emotional dependence, addiction or excessive spending.
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Restrictions on social networking
A report published by China’s Cyberspace Administration also said the draft would prohibit stranger-focused online social networking services for minors, with an exception for those aged 16 and above who rely primarily on their own labour income for a living.
It would also prohibit platforms from allowing children under 16 to host livestreams. Several online services, including social networking, gaming and AI services, will be required to operate through a dedicated “minor mode” for younger users.
Violating these rules could lead authorities to prevent providers from offering their services and impose fines of up to RMB 10,000 to RMB 100,000 (approximately US$1,500 to US$15,000), law firm Latham & Watkins reported.
If the violation endangers citizens’ life and health, fines of RMB 100,000 to RMB 200,000 (approximately US$15,000 to US$30,000) could be imposed, the law firm added.
According to data from the China Internet Network Information Centre, individuals aged between 6 and 19 accounted for 112.5 million people, or 18% of all Chinese internet users.
The proposal is now soliciting public comment through October 17.
Edited by Maryam Hassan
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