China to launch crackdown on porn, illegal publications, fake news organizations

BEIJING - China will launch a new round of crackdown on online pornography, illegal publications for children and fake news organizations.

The crackdown, initiated by the National Office Against Pornographic and Illegal Publications, will run from March to November this year.

The anti-porn campaign will target the spreading of pornographic and vulgar content through literary websites, WeChat, Weibo, online forums and live-streaming platforms, as well as those who sell pornographic videos online, said the office.

The authorities will strengthen the fight against illegal publications for children. Books, card games and other cultural products sold to minors near schools will be put under careful scrutiny.

Meanwhile, efforts will be made to eliminate pornography, vulgarity, violence and other harmful information that is spread on Internet applications for children.

Regulators will also be tasked with fighting fake news organizations and journalists, as well as misconduct such as news blackmailing, said the office.