Source: Lawyer Liu Honglin

Background

Blockchain technology is reshaping the boundaries of the technology field, not only leading the technological revolution, but also opening a new chapter in information dissemination. With the in-depth development of this technology, the blockchain media and information track has also become a hot spot in this field. These platforms are not only the hub of information, but also the battleground for institutions vying to lay out the blockchain ecosystem.

**Entrepreneurs must face a series of challenges such as copyright, user data protection, regulatory compliance, and investment information transparency in the exploration of this market segment. For example, when it comes to the latest regulatory policies for cryptocurrencies, how to ensure the authenticity of the information while avoiding touching the legal red line becomes a key issue. This article is interpreted by lawyer Honglin on the key compliance points that should be paid attention to when carrying out blockchain information services in China.

0****1 Copyright & Intellectual Property Protection

In the digital age, content is king, and copyright and intellectual property protection are the shields of content creators. As a platform for information dissemination, blockchain information websites face important challenges in copyright protection.

For example, the website may reproduce or quote third-party market analysis reports, technical interpretation articles, and even image and video materials. In this case, it is important to ensure that the content used has been authorized by the original author or copyright holder. In addition, attribution of the source and author of the content is also an important sign of respect for copyright. For example, even if a website has the right to reprint an article, it should clearly mark the link to the original article and the author's name at the end of the article as a sign of respect.

Intellectual property protection is not only limited to avoiding infringement, but also involves the protection of the original content of the website itself. For example, an information website might produce an exclusive video tutorial or in-depth analysis report on blockchain technology. These original contents should also be protected by copyright law. Websites can protect their intellectual property rights from infringement by means of copyright registration, the use of watermarks, etc.

0****2 User Privacy Protection and Data Security

In the era of big data and artificial intelligence, the protection of user data is particularly important. For blockchain information websites, it is their social responsibility and legal obligation to handle users' personal information in a compliant manner.

For example, when a user registers, subscribes to a newsletter, or participates in an online discussion, the website collects personal information such as the user's name and email address. According to the Personal Information Protection Law, websites must clearly state the purpose of collection and use of this information, and only process it on the basis of the user's consent. Data security is another important aspect of user privacy protection. For example, websites need to employ encryption technology to protect user data stored on servers to prevent hacking and data breaches. In addition, websites need to regularly review and upgrade their security systems in response to growing cybersecurity threats. In the event of a data breach or security incident, the website also needs to have a clear emergency response plan and notify the affected users and relevant regulators in a timely manner.

0****3 Compliance Operations and Regulatory Compliance

Compliant operations are essential for blockchain news websites, and the content of the website must not involve illegal financial activities, such as cryptocurrency trading and initial coin offerings (ICOs), which are currently strictly restricted in China. Even when discussing these topics, it should be from a technical or academic point of view and avoid facilitating or channeling any illegal trading activities. In addition, websites are also required to comply with relevant financial laws and regulations when publishing financial investment advice to ensure that they do not involve illegal financial activities or misleading financial promotions.

In addition to cryptocurrency, there are other regulatory areas that require special attention. For example, China's Cybersecurity Law imposes a series of requirements on network operators, including, but not limited to, the protection of user information, cybersecurity precautions, and the establishment of data centers within China. As a blockchain information website, it is necessary to ensure that all technologies and operations comply with these legal requirements.

04 Risk Warning and Investor Protection

The virtual currency market is highly uncertain and volatile, and a clear risk warning is essential for investor protection. Websites must clearly indicate the risks associated with any investment-related information or analysis when providing them.

For example, if a website publishes an analysis of the future potential of a cryptocurrency, it should clearly state the uncertainty of the market, the possibility of price fluctuations, and the possible loss of the investment.

In addition, investor protection is more than just providing risk warnings. The blockchain information website should also ensure that the information provided is based on adequate and accurate market analysis and data research. This means that the website needs to have a certain amount of research and analysis ability to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date. At the same time, in order to avoid conflicts of interest, websites are also required to disclose any affiliations or interests that may affect the objectivity of their content.

05 Whether to block the IP of users in Chinese mainland

Many friends who have entered the information business often ask such a question when communicating with Honglin lawyers, and the answer to this question cannot be generalized. Whether or not to block access from users in Chinese mainland depends on a number of factors, including the specific content of the website, the business model, and the laws and regulations you want to follow.

Given China's strict regulation of certain blockchain applications, especially cryptocurrency transactions and related activities, blocking user IPs in Chinese mainland may be a prudent choice if the website content involves these aspects. Doing so can reduce the potential legal risks associated with violating local laws and regulations.

But if the content of the website is mainly focused on blockchain technology education, information sharing, and non-transaction-related discussions, then blocking the IP of users in Chinese mainland may not be necessary. In this case, the focus should be on ensuring that the content of the website complies with the laws and regulations related to the Internet and information dissemination in China.

06 Mankiw Lawyer Summarizes for You

In the subdivided entrepreneurial field of blockchain information websites, the legal challenges and risks faced cover everything from technical details to content management, to the protection of user information and legal compliance, and even the protection of investors' rights and interests. Comprehensively addressing these legal challenges and risks is not only a need for compliance, but also the key to ensuring continued growth in the industry and gaining the trust of users.

In terms of copyright and intellectual property protection, the primary task facing website operators is to ensure the legality and innovation of the published content, which is not only a respect for the intellectual achievements of the original creator, but also the key to ensuring that their intellectual property rights are not infringed.

When handling user data, websites must strictly comply with relevant laws and regulations, ensure the security and privacy of personal information, and provide a safe and secure network environment.

In the process of compliance operation, considering the continuous evolution of regulatory policies in the blockchain field, entrepreneurs need to continue to pay attention to the changes in regulatory policies to ensure that all business activities are carried out within the scope permitted by law.

When providing investment-related information, it is the responsibility of the website to protect the interests of investors by providing comprehensive and accurate market analysis, presenting information about all parties fairly, and clearly indicating potential investment risks.