However, Chinese users have not given up and are finding creative ways to protect their anonymity, such as adopting shared identities or using group accounts to post content. Despite the challenges, the author remains hopeful that the ingenuity of users will continue to find ways around the restrictions. The author also notes the importance of online anonymity in their work as a reporter and in their personal use of social media, expressing concern about the potential impact of the new rules on their ability to gather information and engage with online communities.
Key takeaways:
- All social media platforms in China now require certain users with large followings to display their legal names. This rule is argued to prevent online harassment and misinformation, but it also limits the benefits of online anonymity.
- Anonymity online has allowed people to speak up against censorship, provide help to strangers, and create safe communities for marginalized groups. However, the mandatory real-name rule could lead to stricter and more expansive restrictions.
- Despite these changes, users in China have found workarounds to protect their anonymity, such as shared identities or group accounts. These solutions may not be long-term, but it shows the resilience and creativity of the users.
- Other news from China includes a draft regulation on video games causing market fears, sanctions on US defense companies, BYD outselling Tesla, and the growth of AI customer service despite its current limitations.