Kendra Schaefer 凯娜

My goodness. China's cyberspace watchdog, the CAC, just published a long (and unprecedented) set of draft regulations for recommendation algorithms. The short version: they will be tightly controlled. Key points below. 1/ http://www.cac.gov.cn/2021-08/27/c_1631652502874117.htm …

Most interesting to me: Users must be provided with a convenient way to see and delete the keywords that the algorithm is using to profile them. 2/

And there are limits on the types of keywords algos can collect: "Providers ... shall not record illegal and undesirable keywords in the user points of interest or as user tags and push information content accordingly, and may not set discriminatory or biased user labels." 3/

Users must be informed that algorithms are being used to recommend content or products to them, and must be allowed to opt out, and see non-personalized results. 4/

There is a clear concern that algorithms will be used to the detriment of socialist core values. "The algorithm recommendation service provider shall adhere to mainstream values ... actively spread positive energy, and promote the application of algorithms for the better." 5/

Also a clear concern they may be used to manipulate consumers: "Providers shall regularly review, evaluate, and verify algorithm mechanisms, models, data, and application results, etc., and may not set up models ... such as inducing users to indulge or consume high amounts." 6/

Alogs can't be used to "falsely register accounts ... or falsely likes, comment, forwards... manipulate search rankings, control hot topics, ... implement self-preferential treatment, unfair competition, influence online public opinion, or evade supervision." 7/

Protecting kids: Algorithms cannot push info to minors that induce them to imitate unsafe behaviors or bad habits, or profile them in order to encourage internet addiction. 8/