China launches crackdown on online defamation, extortion targeting businesses

BEIJING -- China's top internet regulator has launched a two-month nationwide campaign to tackle online defamation, extortion, and malicious marketing that harm businesses and entrepreneurs.

Announced Thursday by the Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission, the campaign aims to clean up the digital environment and support a healthier business climate amid the country's drive for high-quality development.

The initiative targets so-called "black mouths" -- online accounts or influencers who spread false or damaging content about companies for profit or leverage.

Key issues include fabricating negative claims about product quality or finances, and demanding "deletion" or "PR" fees in exchange for removing harmful posts.

Authorities also flagged abuse of online influence disguised as "public supervision," particularly around sensitive business moments like product launches or stock listings.

The campaign will address malicious manipulation of public data and online impersonation, misquotation, and privacy violations involving business leaders.

As part of the internet regulator's broader 2025 operation to promote a more orderly, credible and law-abiding online space, the initiative urges internet platforms to enhance content management, improve the handling of corporate-related complaints, and take greater responsibility for curbing online abuse.