New regulation targets online rumors

Individuals or organizations engaged in the internet information services industry are prohibited from fabricating or spreading rumors to disturb public order on events such as epidemics, according to a new draft regulation.

Those making or broadcasting fake information on epidemics, public security or dangerous cases could face a fine up to 1 million yuan ($154,650), according to the draft revision to the regulation on the administration of internet information services.

The revised draft, jointly made by the Cyberspace Administration of China, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the Ministry of Public Security, was released by the administration on its website to solicit public opinion on Friday.

The administration clarified they amended this legal document not only to promote healthy and orderly development of the industry, but also to protect people's legitimate rights and maintaining national security and public interests.

The administration opened its workplace and e-mail addresses on the website, welcoming public suggestions by Feb 7.

The draft clarifies anyone in the internet information service industry cannot make, copy, post or spread information that insults or slanders others, or harms others' reputation, privacy or intellectual property rights. It also says providing aid, such as offering technology or device support, to make, copy, post or spread such information must be banned.

Additionally, no individuals or organizations can profit from, nor provide services for, helping others delete, block, replace or weaken the effects of their posted information.