Prosecutors Charge 2,458 Individuals, Courts Punish 383 for Online Harassment

Chinese Authorities Crack Down on Cyberbullying

In a significant move to protect internet users' rights, Chinese judicial authorities have intensified their efforts to combat cyberbullying. This initiative was highlighted in the annual work reports submitted to the ongoing third session of the 14th National People's Congress, China's top legislature.

The Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) reported that prosecutors nationwide have been actively pursuing individuals who spread rumors and exploit online trends to harm others. Last year alone, 2,458 individuals were charged with the crime of infringing upon personal information, demonstrating a strong commitment to safeguarding privacy and data security.

The Supreme People's Court (SPC) report further detailed that 383 people were punished for engaging in online bullying. Notably, the report also indicated a decrease in convictions for infringing on personal information (down 22.3%) and insult or defamation (down 32%) compared to the previous year. This suggests a potential shift towards more effective prevention and intervention strategies.

These efforts by Chinese judicial authorities underscore the growing recognition of the detrimental impact of cyberbullying and the need for robust measures to address it. By actively prosecuting offenders and promoting awareness, China is taking concrete steps towards creating a safer and more respectful online environment for its citizens.