China to ban indecent messaging even between couples - What violators could face

The new rules could extend even to the consensual exchange of sexual images between adults. Under the updated regulations, the ban will apply to platforms such as WeChat and will be enforced particularly strictly in cases involving minors.

Chinese authorities say the changes are intended to "close regulatory loopholes" and ensure a "clean online environment" free of pornography.

How violators to be punished

Penalties for distributing indecent content will include administrative detention of 10 to 15 days and fines of up to approximately $700. Previously, punishments for similar offenses were less severe.

Experts note that while some provisions are aimed at protecting minors, the broad interpretation of key terms creates risks to user privacy. Concerns are growing as state bodies gain access to personal messages.

Background

The announcement of the new rules followed a high-profile incident this summer, when numerous intimate photos of women were discovered and shared without consent in a group on Telegram, triggering widespread public backlash in China.

The new policy is part of Beijing’s broader tightening of control over online content and adds to the country's already strict digital regulations.

Restrictions in East Asia

Among informal restrictions for young people in Japan are hugging and kissing in public. While not punishable by law, such behavior is considered indecent and inappropriate.

Japanese people also tend not to invite others into their homes casually, as the home is viewed as a strictly private space.

More broadly, public displays of emotion are generally discouraged in Japan. People are accustomed to these social norms, which are widely seen as natural within society.