Xiaohongshu Tightens Rules on AI Content: Label or Lose Visibility
Xiaohongshu Takes Stand Against Unlabeled AI Content
In a bold move to maintain platform integrity, Xiaohongshu has rolled out stringent new rules requiring clear labeling of AI-generated content. The changes, effective immediately, could significantly impact creators who fail to disclose their use of artificial intelligence tools.
What's Changing?
The platform will now automatically detect and flag suspected AI content using advanced algorithms. Posts identified as AI-generated but lacking proper labels will receive warning tags - think of them as digital scarlet letters.
"We're seeing too many cases where synthetic content gets passed off as real," explains a Xiaohongshu spokesperson. "From fake celebrity endorsements to doctored historical images, the potential for harm is real."
Creators who repeatedly ignore labeling requirements face reduced distribution, essentially making their content invisible to most users. The platform is also targeting black market services that promise to remove AI detection markers.
Spring Cleaning for Digital Spaces
The timing aligns with China's "Clear and Bright 2026" campaign - an annual spring festival initiative to clean up online spaces. This year's focus? The dark side of generative AI:
- Fabricated emergencies: Fake disaster footage designed to spread panic
- Cultural vandalism: Altered classic artworks and distorted traditions
- Social division: Algorithmically amplified conflicts between regions or generations
"It's not about stifling creativity," assures cybersecurity expert Li Wei. "We're simply establishing guardrails so this powerful technology doesn't derail into chaos."
Why Transparency Matters Now
The push reflects growing global concerns about synthetic media. Last month, deepfake videos of politicians caused stock market fluctuations in three Asian countries. Meanwhile, artists worldwide protest unauthorized use of their styles in AI generators.
Xiaohongshu's decision puts it ahead of many Western platforms in addressing these issues head-on. As synthetic content becomes indistinguishable from reality, such measures may soon become industry standard rather than exception.
Key Points:
- Mandatory labeling: All AI-generated content must be clearly marked
- Detection systems: Advanced algorithms will identify synthetic media
- Penalties apply: Unlabeled posts face visibility reductions
- Broader crackdown: Part of nationwide effort against harmful AI uses
