social media

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.

Weibo is cracking down on online “malicious attacks” and misinformation targeting entrepreneurs and EV brands. Several users, including @不严肃的克拉拉, @猪倌玩电车不养猪, and @Remi雷米侃电车, have been suspended for violating platform guidelines, such as product disparagement and personal attacks. Weibo aims to promote objective reviews and industry analysis, warning against defamatory tactics, citing similar action against blogger @Blood旌旗 for attacking companies and energy policies.

Guo Ying, known online as “Cat Grandma,” has passed away at 92. Her granddaughter, Meiyao, shared the news, highlighting Guo Ying’s impact on her life and the online community. Meiyao had been documenting her grandmother’s life since 2018, showcasing her English skills, makeup experiments, and family photos. Guo Ying was remembered for her optimism, resilience, and generosity. Meiyao expressed gratitude for the support and will keep her grandmother’s videos online as a tribute.

A video of a U.S. unicorn company’s CEO and CHRO in an intimate moment at a concert, projected onto the venue’s screen, has gone viral. The video, showing the pair embracing, garnered over 35 million views on TikTok. After the incident, the CEO issued an apology on X (formerly Twitter), prompting a reaction from Elon Musk.