China's Cyberspace Administration targets online infringement against businesses

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has issued new guidelines to strengthen the management of information that infringes upon the rights of enterprises and entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to optimize the online business environment by requiring internet platforms to proactively clean up various types of infringing content.

The scope of regulated information includes personal data leaks (such as IDs, passports, and financial accounts), insulting or derogatory content targeting companies and their leaders, fraudulent or misleading information, and the malicious recycling of old negative news to damage corporate reputations. Platforms are instructed to improve content management systems, optimize community rules, and strengthen oversight of accounts and MCN agencies.

In a recent crackdown under the ‘Qinglang’ campaign, authorities reported that more than 1.56 million pieces of infringing information were removed and over 26,000 accounts were dealt with. Typical cases involved accounts spreading false information to extort ‘promotion fees’ from companies, inciting consumer conflict through derogatory product reviews, and fabricating news regarding business difficulties or product quality issues.