China releases draft regulation to strengthen online safety for minors

China's top internet regulator has released a draft regulation aimed at enhancing online safety for children, inviting public feedback as part of broader efforts to strengthen protection for minors in cyberspace.

The Cyberspace Administration of China published the full 25-article draft on its website on Friday, along with contact details for submitting opinions. The consultation period ends on Oct 17.

The administration stressed the importance of safeguarding young internet users, saying that the draft was formulated in accordance with laws on the protection of minors, cybersecurity and personal information protection.

According to the draft, online service providers, smart terminal product developers and app operators are urged to prioritize the protection of minors, ensuring that young internet users can navigate the web in a safe, civilized and responsible manner.

The draft prohibits offering services such as virtual companions to minors, as well as practices that could lead to internet addiction among young people.

Online social services, including but not limited to microblogs, forum communities, groups, WeChat moments and private messages, should be provided to minors under 16 through a minors mode, according to the draft.

Manufacturers of smart devices are also required to incorporate a minors mode into their products, featuring one-click switching, exit verification and controls over usage periods, duration and content, the draft says.

It also clarifies that online service providers and smart device developers with such a minors mode must be registered with provincial cyberspace departments.

Additionally, the draft outlines the responsibilities of various government bodies. The national press and publication department is tasked with leading efforts to prevent minors from becoming addicted to online games, while public security agencies are charged with protecting minors' rights and cracking down on cybercrimes such as cyberbullying, the spread of obscene materials and violations of personal information.

Schools are also encouraged to strengthen teacher training to better identify and intervene early when students show signs of internet addiction.