China has moved to tighten oversight of artificial intelligence technologies, with the Cyberspace Administration of China issuing draft regulations to govern the development and use of “digital humans” online.
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Under the proposed rules, all virtual human content must carry clear and prominent labels identifying it as artificially generated. The regulations also ban services that could mislead users, particularly children, or contribute to addiction.
The draft explicitly prohibits digital humans from offering “virtual intimate relationships” to individuals under 18, reflecting growing concerns over the psychological impact of AI-driven interactions on minors.
Authorities also aim to curb misuse of personal data, banning the creation of digital humans using real individuals’ information without consent, as well as the use of such technology to bypass identity verification systems.
The regulations further restrict content that could threaten national security, promote subversion, or undermine national unity — aligning with Beijing’s broader governance framework for online platforms.
Service providers are urged to prevent the spread of harmful material, including sexually suggestive or violent content, and to take proactive steps in addressing user behaviour indicating self-harm or mental distress.
The move comes as China accelerates the integration of artificial intelligence into its economy under its latest policy roadmap, while simultaneously strengthening regulatory controls to ensure safety and alignment with state priorities.
Officials say the proposed rules aim to close regulatory gaps in the rapidly growing digital human sector and establish clear boundaries for its development within the country’s digital economy.
