China's cyberspace regulator imposes new rules on livestream tipping services

China's top cyberspace regulator has mandated that online platforms ensure livestream tipping services are provided to users in a "direct and transparent" manner. It also requires platforms to obtain guardian consent before allowing minors aged 8 to 16 to use such services.

A notice released by the Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission on Monday outlines 11 specific requirements to regulate profit-making activities in online livestreaming, including clearly disclosing tipping rules and providing spending caps and reminder functions.

According to the notice, platforms offering top-up and tipping services, setting ranking lists, or designing interactive features must establish clear rules and disclose them in a direct and concise manner. They must not use repeated redirects or lengthy terms to obscure users' understanding.

If a livestreaming account applies for tipping-related monetization privileges and has a record of violations, such privileges may only be restored three months after the punishment period ends. If an account is muted for rule violations, its tipping-related monetization privileges must also be suspended for a period two to three times the length of the mute.

Without user consent, platforms must not publicly display users' spending data, such as top-ups, tips, or gift purchases. Platforms are also required to strengthen the review of tipping-related interactions and must not allow illegal or harmful content or induce users to tip through cash-back offers, self-tipping, or similar practices.

The notice also emphasizes stronger protection of minors. Platforms must not provide tipping services to children under the age of 8, and for minors aged 8 to 16, guardian consent is required. For minors aged 16 and above, platforms must obtain guardian consent or verify proof of income before providing tipping services.