According to media reports, Chinese regulators have moved to restrict minors from live-streaming on various online platforms in order to protect their physical and mental health.
According to the South China Morning Post, the new rules prohibit users under the age of 16 from live-streaming, while users between the ages of 16 and 18 must obtain permission from their parents or guardians before doing so.
“Internet platforms should a strictly implement the real-name registration requirement, and prohibit offering minors’ tipping services such as cash top-up, gift purchase, and online payment,” according to a statement issued by the regulators.
TikTok’s app Douyin, Alibaba Group’s Taobao Live, and Kuaishou Technology’s short video platform are the most popular live-streaming platforms.
The new rules were issued by four regulators, including the National Radio and Television Administration and the Chinese Cyberspace Administration (CAC).
“If platforms are found to violate the above requirements, measures including suspension of the tipping feature and shutting down of the live-streaming business could be put in place,” the regulators mentioned.
Regulators have expressed a desire for Big Tech to improve their “youth mode” in order to protect teenagers from gaming addiction and inappropriate content.
Last year, regulators imposed a three-hour weekly limit on online gaming for teenagers.
Chinese regulators have launched a series of “clear and bright” campaigns to combat “online chaos.”
