On 3 Nov. 2022, the Cyberspace Administration of China issued the “Provisions on the Administration of Deep Synthesis of Internet-based Information Service” (互联网信息服务深度合成管理规定, hereinafter the “Provisions”), which will come into effect on 10 Jan. 2023.

The Provisions consists of 25 articles and applies to the application of deep synthesis technology to provide Internet-based information services within China.

Among others, the following points are noteworthy.

1.No organization or individual may use deep synthesis services to produce, copy, publish, or disseminate information prohibited by laws and administrative regulations.

2.No organization or individual may use deep synthesis services to engage in activities prohibited by laws and administrative regulations, such as those endangering national security and interests, damaging the national image, infringing on public interests, disrupting economic and social order, and infringing on the legitimate rights and interests of others.

3.The deep synthesis service providers and users shall not use deep synthesis services to produce, copy, publish or disseminate false news information.

4.Deep synthesis service users shall have their real identity information authenticated.

5.Deep synthesis service providers shall establish and improve a rumor-refuting mechanism. If it is found that deep synthesis services are used to produce, copy, publish, or spread false information, they shall take timely measures for refuting rumors, keeping relevant records, and reporting to the regulatory authorities.

6.If deep synthesis service providers and technical supporters provide tools to generate or edit biometric information on the face and human voice, they shall conduct safety assessments.