Websites are now heavily censored by the government. (Photo : Reuters)
The Cyberspace Administration of China released on its website on Tuesday strengthened guidelines on Web censorship and warns online companies about the possible shutdown of violators.
Offenses like publication of lewd materials, false information and negligence of accomplishing Internet security requirements will be dealt with by the agency.
Violators are required to send a representative to meet with the administration's officials.
In addition, failure of taking actions after being warned will result in charges, momentary closure or permanent shutdown.
Fan Li, an official with the administration, said as quoted by Radio Free Asia that there is a high possibility that websites spreading false information and lewd materials, as well as allowing the users to set up illegal account names and exposing the private information of users, will be invited for a chat.
"If problems are not rectified after they have been summoned several times, [Internet portals] will be given heavier punishment," Fan added.
In 2013, Chinese lawmakers have issued a regulation regarding harsh comments and negative news reports that were circulating online.
This year, bosses of prominent Web sites Sina and Netease were invited for a scrutiny meeting by the Cyberspace Administration for the correction of their company's offenses, Xinhua reported.
The meeting went out positively despite the fact that Sina and Netease's delegates were shaken upon receiving the summons.
The strengthened guidelines, which will be effective on June 1, just shows that the Chinese government is serious about regulating online censorship.
