China: Implemented CAC Regulations on the Governance of Online Violence Information including content moderation regulation

On 1 August 2024, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC)’s Regulations on the Governance of Online Violence Information enter into force. The regulations outline obligations to address online content deemed violent or harmful, aimed at upholding national cybersecurity and social order. In particular, the regulations require internet service providers to implement controls on user-generated content, establish robust content management systems, and promptly remove or block any material violating these guidelines. Furthermore, the providers are required to develop standards and databases for identifying and monitoring online violence using artificial intelligence and manual review, create early warning models for online violence and establish a user account credit system to manage and penalise online violence. Additionally, the regulation includes provisions to protect vulnerable groups, such as minors, with mechanisms for users to report and mitigate instances of online violence. In case of non-compliance with the regulations, entities face penalties in line with the Chinese laws already in force and if unspecified, relevant departments may issue warnings, demand rectifications, and impose fines ranging from CNY 10’000 to CNY 200’000 based on the severity and consequences of the violation.