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China reports increase in young people added to social credit blacklist

Cases are emerging in China where young people are being placed on the social credit system’s blacklist after posting content deemed disinformation. Being blacklisted affects employment opportunities, train travel, internet speed, and children’s access to education.
Nov 18, 2025 - 11:14
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China continues to report cases of citizens being added to the social credit system’s blacklist. According to reports, tens of thousands of young people have been affected after their social media posts were classified as disinformation. The system evaluates citizens’ behavior based on a set of points that determine their social credit level. If the score falls below a certain threshold, an individual may be added to the restriction list. Data suggests that losing fifty points may result in blacklisting and the subsequent imposition of multiple restrictions.

The social credit system entails various consequences that affect citizens’ daily lives. Once blacklisted, individuals may face travel restrictions. In some cases, reports indicate bans on purchasing train or airline tickets. Restrictions may also extend to employment opportunities, as employers may consider a person’s social rating when making hiring decisions. These measures are said to limit the professional prospects of those listed, creating obstacles in job searches.

The system may also affect access to infrastructure. Reports suggest that some blacklisted individuals have experienced reduced internet connection speeds. These measures are linked to communication service regulations based on social rating levels. Furthermore, inclusion in the list may influence children’s access to certain educational institutions. It is noted that some schools and programs take parents’ social status into account during the admissions process. This creates additional consequences for families whose data appear in restriction lists.

Sources indicate that one reason for score reduction can be publishing social media posts classified as disinformation. Content identified by government agencies as false may be treated as a rule violation, resulting in a loss of points. This rule applies to various categories of user-generated content, including public posts, comments, and materials shared across digital platforms. As a result, users face potential penalties under the social evaluation framework.

The use of the social credit system remains a topic of discussion among citizens affected by rating downgrades. Many have reported difficulties resulting from being blacklisted. The system’s impact on daily activities and development opportunities continues to draw domestic attention. Current reports describe consequences affecting employment, infrastructure access, and social mobility. The situation’s evolution may depend on adjustments to system regulations and their implementation in practice.