China's Crackdown on Digital Dissent: A Nationwide Campaign

China's internet regulatory body announced on Monday a sweeping two-month campaign to eliminate online content that may incite violence or foster hostile sentiments in society. Not even pessimism about the economy is exempt from scrutiny.

This initiative comes in the wake of disciplinary measures against platforms like short-video app Kuaishou, microblogging site Weibo, and Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote, accused of content violations.

The Cyberspace Administration of China is set to conduct thorough inspections targeting trending topics, content recommendations, and user comments. Problematic content includes posts inciting fan clashes, teaching doxxing techniques, and promulgating falsified economic news, distorted narratives, or sensational conspiracy theories.

Authorities are also focusing on content that exaggerates negativity, such as claims that hard work or education is useless, aiming to curb negativity and prevent societal disturbance. This robust regulatory action follows the Beijing police's recent measures against individuals spreading false rumors about actor Yu Menglong's death, disrupting public order.

(With inputs from agencies.)