A married Beijing man gifted over 17 million RMB to a female livestreamer across 44,000+ transactions over two years. His wife sued the platform, which the court found negligent in monitoring excessive spending. The platform was ordered to refund 7.875 million RMB.

Social Context

This landmark ruling implements Article 31 of China’s 2022 Internet Live Streaming Management Regulations, requiring platforms to deploy AI-driven gifting limits and real-time intervention for users exhibiting addictive behavior. It marks a judicial shift toward holding platforms—not just streamers—accountable for financial harm in digital intimacy economies.

Safety Tip

Enable built-in gifting caps and monthly spending alerts on all streaming platforms; spouses should jointly review transaction histories quarterly under China’s joint property presumption.