China’s top internet regulator has announced a sweeping two month crackdown on social media, targeting what it calls “malicious content” that fuels conflict, spreads rumours, or promotes negative outlooks on life.
The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said the campaign is designed to curb online posts that exaggerate social divisions, stigmatise groups, or highlight “undesirable” celebrity culture. Authorities warned that content encouraging violence, world weariness, or lifestyles such as “lying flat” and “letting it rot” would also come under scrutiny.
Beijing requires platforms to tightly monitor discussions and prevent anything considered subversive, vulgar, or harmful. The CAC recently penalised three popular platforms microblogging site Weibo, short-video app Kuaishou, and lifestyle platform Xiaohongshu (Rednote) accusing them of failing to manage harmful content. However, officials did not disclose what punishments were imposed.
The new campaign also aims to stop rumours about the economy, finance, social policies, and public welfare, after warnings last year that “pessimistic” posts about China’s economy could lead to consequences. Local officials have even cautioned comedians against stirring gender tensions in stand-up routines.
Through this drive, regulators say they want to create a “civilised and rational online environment” where content inspires stability rather than conflict.
