In a bold move to combat misinformation and promote credibility in digital spaces, China is now enforcing stricter rules for social media influencers. Under the new regulation, any content creator offering advice or commentary on sensitive and professional subjects—such as medicine, law, finance, or education—must provide proof of their qualifications. This includes formal training, verified degrees, or recognized professional certifications.

Top platforms like Douyin, Weibo, and Bilibili are now mandated to verify these credentials. Influencers who fail to comply may face account suspension, closure, or even fines reaching up to 100,000 yuan (approximately $14,000).

This regulatory shift is designed to ensure that the public receives accurate, expert-backed information—especially in areas where misinformation could have serious consequences.

Sele Media Africa asks: Could Africa benefit from a similar framework to strengthen content credibility and protect the public from misleading or harmful advice online? In an era where digital voices are powerful, should Africa consider policies that balance freedom of expression with professional accountability?

Let us know what you think.

SeleMediaAfrica #DigitalAfrica #Misinformation #SocialMediaRegulations #Influencers #MediaEthics #PolicyMatters

About The Author

Joshua Ishaku Apajukun

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Joshua Ishaku Apajukun is a skilled journalist and one of the top contributors at Sele Media Africa. He holds a degree in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Jos. Known for his versatility and depth, Joshua covers a wide range of stories including breaking news, in-depth features, and compelling human interest reports. His commitment to factual reporting, ethical journalism, and impactful storytelling continues to shape the voice of Sele Media Africa, making him a valuable voice in the African media landscape.

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