China's AI Crackdown Removes 3,500 Products, 960,000 Pieces of Illegal Information

The Cyberspace Administration of China has initiated the first phase of the "Clear and Bright: Rectifying the Abuse of AI Technology" campaign, which began in April 2025. This campaign is focused on addressing issues related to AI deepfakes and voice cloning that infringe on public rights, as well as the lack of content labeling that misleads the public. The administration has taken significant steps to tackle these problems, including the removal of 3,500 AI products that were found to be in violation of regulations. These products include mini-programs, applications, and intelligent entities. Additionally, 960,000 pieces of illegal information have been removed, and 3,700 accounts have been dealt with.

Local cyberspace administration departments have played a crucial role in supporting this campaign. They have implemented various measures to ensure its success, including the guidance of major platforms such as Xiaohongshu, Bilibili, and Pinduoduo. These platforms have been directed to clean up illegal AI products and related marketing information. Collectively, they have intercepted and removed over 820,000 pieces of illegal information, dealt with 1,400 accounts, and taken down 2,700 illegal intelligent entities. These efforts have resulted in a significant reduction of illegal AI information online.

The first phase of the campaign has been instrumental in addressing the misuse of AI technology, particularly in areas where it poses a threat to public rights and safety. By focusing on the source of AI technology and enhancing content management, the administration aims to create a safer and more transparent digital environment. The campaign's success highlights the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring that technological advancements are used responsibly and ethically.

As the campaign progresses into its second phase, it is expected to further strengthen AI governance and promote the healthy development of the AI industry. The administration will focus on seven key areas, including AI-generated misinformation and low-quality content, to ensure that the digital landscape remains clean and safe. The goal is to establish a robust technical monitoring system, standardize the handling and punishment of violations, and ensure that content labeling is implemented on schedule. This will help create a long-term mechanism for maintaining a clean and safe online environment, driving the responsible and ethical use of AI technology.