social media

California enacted legislation aimed at protecting children online, addressing concerns about AI chatbots, social media, and digitally altered content. SB 243 requires AI chatbots to disclose their AI nature and prompt minor users to take breaks. AB 56 mandates social media platforms to display mental health risk warnings, while AB 621 increases penalties for deepfake pornography. AB 1043 requires age verification tools in app stores. The laws necessitate changes in tech business models and align with a global trend toward greater AI regulation.

YouTube settled a lawsuit with Donald Trump for $24.5 million over his 2021 account suspension following the January 6th Capitol riots. The settlement, which doesn’t admit liability, follows similar payouts from Meta and X. The lawsuits, alleging censorship, sparked debate on free speech versus content moderation. Some analysts view the settlements as preemptive measures against potential regulatory scrutiny during Trump’s second term, especially given Google’s existing challenges and congressional concerns about potential quid-pro-quo arrangements. The financial burden of content moderation for tech firms is also highlighted.

Instagram has reached 3 billion monthly active users, as announced by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. This marks a significant growth from the 2 billion users reported in October 2022. The platform’s success is attributed to its visual format and evolving features. In related news, Instagram has implemented new default privacy settings, setting all underage accounts to private. This reflects growing concerns about online safety for younger users.

A vehicle displaying a “ghost face” mask sparked a police investigation in Hebei, China, to determine if it violated traffic laws. This follows a similar incident in Hangzhou where people wore masks to scare drivers. Authorities are concerned about distractions on the road, prompting legal consideration of objects obstructing driver visibility. The incident, documented via social media, highlights the tension between harmless pranks, public safety, and the legal ramifications of disruptive behavior, raising broader questions about road safety and public conduct.

A Douyin user, Wang Moumou, created a fake missing-child post using AI, generating widespread concern. The fabricated video detailed a fictional abduction, complete with a pilfered image of a child. Investigations revealed the hoax, leading to Wang’s arrest. He confessed to using AI to gain online followers. The incident highlights the dangers of AI-generated misinformation and the ethical implications of exploiting social media algorithms for personal gain, prompting calls for increased media literacy and responsible online behavior.

A ride-sharing driver’s social media post showcasing a year’s worth of traffic tickets has gone viral. The driver faces over $3,000 in fines, primarily for “failure to follow lane directions.” The incident raises concerns about road safety, driver monitoring systems, and the suitability of some drivers for ride-sharing services. Social media users have questioned the driver’s driving habits, and some even suggest a career change.

A restroom sign on a Chinese high-speed train, urging users to flip up the toilet seat, has sparked a gender equality debate online. Female netizens argue the sign implies standing urination as the norm, unfairly burdening those who require a seated position. Others view it as a practical hygiene measure. The controversy highlights sensitivity around gender roles and the potential for misinterpretations, raising questions about legitimate grievances versus overreactions on social media.

DatChat is rebranding to

Khaby Lame, the world’s second-most-followed influencer with 259 million followers, has joined Weibo, launching his first video and generating considerable interest. Known for his signature silent comedy and deadpan reactions, Lame’s move follows other foreign influencers finding success in China, such as Kai Cenat. Lame’s team hints at plans for him to fully integrate into Chinese social media and potentially travel to China, signaling a strategic expansion into the lucrative market. Forbes estimates Lame’s annual income at $20 million.

Japan held its annual “Most Adorable First-Year Junior High and High School Girls” contest, TGC teen 2025 Summer. Over 3,500 high school girls participated, evaluated through applications, interviews, online votes, social media engagement, and livestream viewership. Kokoro won the junior high division, and Nanri took the high school title. The competition offers an alternative path to the entertainment industry, leveraging social media presence, though facing some criticism regarding commercialism and contestant maturity.