China Proposes Regulations to Govern Digital Human Technology

China Proposes Regulations to Govern Digital Human Technology

Why in the News ?

China’s Cyberspace Administration has released draft rules to regulate digital humans, focusing on labelling, consent, and child safety. The move reflects growing concerns over AI misuse, online manipulation, and the need for stronger governance in emerging digital technologies.

Key Provisions of Draft Digital Human Rules:

  • Mandatory clear labelling of all digital human content to avoid misleading users.
  • Prohibits use of personal data without consent to create virtual human avatars.
  • Bans use of digital humans to bypass identity verification systems.
  • Restricts services that may mislead children or promote addictive behaviour.
  • Prohibits digital humans from offering “virtual intimate relationships” to users below 18 years.

Ethical Safeguards and Content Regulations

  • Digital humans cannot generate content that threatens national security or promotes secession and subversion.
  • Strict ban on content involving violence, pornography, discrimination, or harmful social messaging.
  • Service providers must prevent addiction-driven designs and regulate emotional manipulation.
  • Platforms encouraged to intervene in cases of self-harm or suicidal tendencies, offering professional support.
  • Emphasis on aligning AI tools with social stability, public interest, and state values.

About Digital Humans and AI Governance:

●  Digital humans are AI-generated virtual entities that mimic human appearance, speech, and emotions.

●  They are used in sectors like customer service, entertainment, education, and marketing.

●  Raise concerns of deepfakes, identity theft, misinformation, and psychological manipulation.

●  Highlight the need for AI ethics, data privacy laws, and algorithmic accountability.

●  Reflect global trend towards AI regulation, balancing innovation with safety and governance.