China takes tough action: bans fake experts from social media

Misinformation is difficult to decode In this day and age of social media. In China, the internet regulator announced that it is increasing enforcement of laws that prohibit social media influencers from sharing advice about finance, medicine, law and education on social media unless they have professional credentials to back up their content.

Chinese social media platforms, such as Bilibili, Doyin (Chinese TikTok) and Weibo, must follow new regulations set by the Chinese Cyberspace Administration on Saturday.

Creators will have to share studies to back up their information and disclose whether or not they have used it Amnesty International To create any of their content.

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The CAC also prohibits advertising of dietary supplements, medical services, and similar posts that constitute educational content for the sale of a product. Before this regulation, China She announced a two-month campaign To eliminate pessimistic, offensive or violent content.

China has been criticized for trying to control online content and public opinion. But it will not be the first country to implement laws related to social media policies.

Spain implemented its own plan The law of influence in 2024, which requires YouTube, Instagram and TikTok influencers earning more than €300,000 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 confirm the authenticity of the content What they share is correct before publishing.

This is particularly worrying since 2025 Pew Research Center report It found that one in five young Americans gets their news via TikTok.

A UNESCO representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment.