Chinese livestreamer Viya, whose real name is Huang Wei, introduces products during a livestream show. Photo: VCG

Chinese internet watchdog has decided to launch a two-month nationwide campaign to crack down on improper means that damage the legitimate rights and interests of internet users, disturb the environment of online public opinion, and destroy the market order of fair competition, in a bid to purify the online environment. 

According to the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), the campaign will focus on the rectifications in three aspects: forged network flow, malicious slandering and online paid posters. 

The authority will rectify the problem of forged network flow by controlling comments, generating sales through false transactions and click farming. Platforms providing services, sharing comments on books, films and music, social networking and short videos will be the target of the campaign. 

Ghostwriters for comments and paid posters' notes and comments will be the key problems addressed by the rectification. 

Besides, fake sales volume and fake positive comments on the platforms of short videos, livestreaming and e-commerce will be the focus of the rectification in terms of product marketing.

All kinds of top billings, ranking and recommendation will be closely followed to seriously investigate malicious speculation and canvassing by artificial or technological means. 

Secondly, the CAC will continue to regulate the network chaos of malicious slandering. Focus will be placed on cracking down on the act of extortion from others and seeking improper benefits on the grounds of posting negative information online. 

Meanwhile, deliberately inciting netizens' emotions for malicious marketing and riding the wave or hyping up social hot topics will also be rectified. 

Platforms and accounts involved in recommending and hiring paid posters will be cracked down on and cleared. 

Global Times