Governments around the world are tightening regulations on social media influencers to protect the public interest, ensure safety and curb harmful content. China, Australia, the Netherlands, Spain and France have implemented strict measures targeting influencer activity.
China: Qualifications are required for influencer comments
In China, authorities have banned influencers from talking about topics in which they lack expertise. Influencers who discuss professional or sensitive topics are now required to be qualified. The move aims to curb misinformation and ensure that public comments are credible and accountable.
Australia: Protecting children online
Australia has introduced the world’s first policy to block access to social media for children under the age of 16. The country has also banned child influencers to protect minors from exploitation and exposure to potentially harmful online content.
France: Fast fashion and dangerous products are restricted
France has banned influencers from promoting fast fashion, extreme diet products and risky cosmetic procedures. The country’s regulations are designed to curb harmful consumer practices and prevent social media content from promoting unhealthy behavior.
Netherlands: Gambling promotion banned
The Netherlands has banned influencers from promoting online gambling. Partnerships between streamers or content creators and bookmakers are now illegal as authorities seek to protect vulnerable audiences from the risks associated with promoting gambling and betting.
Spain: Tourism influencers under the microscope
In Spain, popular tourist destinations have started to regulate or outright ban travel influences. The crackdown comes after ‘selfie-tourism’ damaged the local environment and sparked anger among residents, prompting authorities to crack down on disruptive influencer behaviour.
