Tough penalties being discussed for internet users include bans or restrictions on social media use, fines, or imprisonment if the abuse is considered by authorities to have serious consequences. This also includes reputation attacks and defamation. In serious cases, users who intentionally attack others online or disclose their private information will be held criminally liable and could be sentenced to up to three years in prison.
Social media platforms will also be held accountable for failing to tackle online abuse under the draft proposal, which includes requirements for internet service providers to intensify reviews of live streaming content and short videos to block information suspected of cyberbullying in a timely manner. If platform operators fail to comply, authorities could require them to suspend content updates. Firms can also be penalized under existing laws that ensure online security and protect personal data with fines of up to 1 million yuan ($138,100).
The proposals follow a number of highly publicized cases of online abuse that have resulted in vulnerable people taking their own lives after being subjected to online bullying campaigns through social media.
The reason why such incidents still take place lies in the vague definition of cyberbullying in current laws. This makes the cost of violations very low, but efforts to protect rights are very high. In addition, it's essential to set up a quick channel for the public to report cyberbullying as well as to lower the price for collecting evidence for victims.
Li Dongsheng, National People's Congress Deputy
Li also suggested that the country establish a blacklist of users who engage in abusive online behaviors below the legal threshold and impose punishments ranging from closing down accounts, banning their posts, or limiting their views and engagement.