Social media platforms and video streaming services are set to place restrictions on dangerous stunt videos, with some even considering a complete ban. This move is aimed at deterring individuals from replicating such unsafe feats.
In a tragic event last November, Wu Yongning, a daredevil climber, met his untimely demise while attempting to scale a high-rise building in Changsha, Hunan province. The 26-year-old was a popular figure on social media, boasting over 1.3 million followers who were captivated by his exhilarating content. Wu was known for his daring climbs without the use of any safety gear.
Fans began expressing concern when Wu’s Sina Weibo account showed no activity in the month following his last post. The worst fears were confirmed when Wu’s girlfriend took to social media on a Friday, to announce his death.
The news of his demise was also confirmed by his family to Jiefang Daily, a Shanghai-based newspaper. Video platforms including Meipai, Kuaishou, and Xiaohuoshan, where Wu shared his content, offered their condolences. Representatives of these platforms told ThePaper.cn that while there is no law in China specifically regulating extreme stunt videos, they plan to revise their content policies to discourage any attempts at imitation.
Kuaishou had already placed restrictions on Wu’s account in September due to the portrayal of dangerous acts. Similarly, Xiaohuoshan announced plans to ban live streams of such risky stunts, citing the potential for disastrous consequences from distractions between the performer and the audience.
All platforms have expressed their commitment to respect the wishes of Wu’s family in dealing with his videos. On Monday, all of Wu’s stunt videos on these platforms were either restricted or removed. This included a mobile phone video of Wu’s last stunt, which ended in his tragic fall.
Wu belonged to a global community of young thrill-seekers who participate in “roof-topping”. This involves climbing to high points of buildings without permission or safety gear and capturing awe-inspiring photos and videos. Such activities are typically illegal.
Earlier this year, another tragedy struck when an 18-year-old, identified as Alexander Sh, fell from the OKO Tower in Moscow, the second-tallest building in Europe, while attempting to take a selfie. This was reported by Russian media.
The goal of this article is to shed light on the risks associated with such dangerous activities, and the steps being taken by social media and video platforms to curb the spread of such content. This is particularly relevant for those considering investing in these platforms, as it demonstrates their commitment to user safety and responsible content sharing.
