China’s cyber watchdog shuts down 3,500 apps over ‘pornographic’ content

China’s cyber watchdog has shut down nearly 3,500 mobile applications for distributing pornographic material and stealing private information, a move it says is aimed at protecting the country’s youth and increasing its control over China’s internet.

According to an announcement by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), it has removed apps including “Online Dating for Adults” (成人约聊), “Lonely in the Night” (夜色的寂寞), and “Sands Macao” (澳门金沙). App operators violated domestic laws by spreading vulgar content, disseminating information about gambling, stealing private information, or providing other illegal gaming services, the regulator said.

An official said the Chinese government has a “zero tolerance” policy towards illegal apps. The CAC aims to strengthen its law enforcement powers in collaboration with other departments. It said an inclusive management process would be created, where internet service providers, content distribution platforms, and social media enterprises are strictly supervised.

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