In a major push to fortify internet regulation, China has initiated a two-month nationwide campaign to eradicate illegal external links across social networks and various online platforms.
The Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission announced this new initiative on Sunday, aiming to curb activities that compromise the digital security and public morals of the nation.
This latest enforcement drive will scrutinize users who incorporate illegal external links into their usernames, profile pictures, or account pages on online platforms. Additionally, the campaign targets those who disseminate such links within comments and social media posts. A specific focus will be on popular social networks like WeChat, where users circulate prohibited content through group chats and Moments, a social networking feature that allows for the sharing of images and texts.
The Cyberspace Affairs Commission has detailed that the scope of the crackdown extends beyond mere social media. Live-streaming platforms, dating sites, online map services, web browsers, and e-commerce platforms will also come under scrutiny. The primary objective is to identify and disable links that mislead users into accessing content related to pornography, sexual services, scams, or gambling.
Explaining the rationale behind the stringent measures, a spokesperson from the Cyberspace Affairs Commission stated, “The proliferation of illegal external links poses a severe threat to the integrity and wholesome usage of internet services. By eliminating these links, we aim to create a safer, healthier online environment for all users.”
This move is part of China’s broader strategy to enforce stricter compliance with internet regulations and maintain social stability. The campaign is also seen as an effort to reinforce the digital barrier that prevents the influence of undesirable foreign digital content and cyber threats.
The crackdown has implications for both individual internet users and businesses operating online in China. Those found violating the new regulations may face severe penalties ranging from temporary suspensions to permanent bans on their digital platforms. Furthermore, businesses failing to comply with the stringent monitoring and filtering guidelines risk hefty fines and potential revocation of operating licenses.
Internet governance experts view this campaign as a continuation of China’s robust policy framework that tightly controls internet access and content within its borders.
Critics, however, argue that such measures restrict freedom of expression and hinder the free flow of information. They express concerns over the increasing surveillance and control over what can be shared and accessed online.
