China's Cyberspace Administration released draft regulations Friday requiring clear labeling of all digital human content and banning virtual services that could mislead children or trigger addiction.
The rules prohibit digital humans from providing "virtual intimate relationships" to those under 18. Companies cannot use others' personal information without consent to create virtual beings or use them to bypass identity verification systems.
Digital humans cannot spread content endangering national security, inciting subversion, or promoting secession. Service providers must block sexually suggestive, horrific, or discriminatory content.
Providers should intervene when users show suicidal tendencies and offer professional help.
China simultaneously pushes aggressive AI adoption across its economy while tightening governance to align with socialist values.
The regulations target a gap in digital human sector oversight, establishing "red lines" for industry development.
"The governance of digital virtual humans has become a strategic scientific problem concerning cybersecurity, public interests, and high-quality digital economy development," the regulator stated.