China introduces AI content labeling guidelines to curb misinformation

China has released a set of guidelines on labeling internet content generated or composed by AI technology, which will take effect on September 1.

Issued by authorities including the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), the guidelines aim to promote the healthy development of the AI sector and help internet users identify false information.

With AI technology advancing rapidly in recent years, vast amounts of online content have been produced in various forms with AI assistance before being disseminated in cyberspace.

At the same time, concerns over AI misuse and the spread of false information have grown, prompting the need for standardized identification measures, according to the CAC.

The misuse of AI has sparked widespread discussions about regulation. In one instance, AI-generated images of a famous Chinese actor were used last year to defraud members of his fan base.

In response, the guidelines mandate that AI-generated content be labeled throughout its production and distribution process, requiring providers to add visible marks in appropriate locations.

The rules also prohibit any organization or individual from deleting, tampering with, fabricating or concealing these identifying labels, the CAC said.