By Global Times
A six-month-long nationwide campaign was launched by the Bureau of Network Security Protection under the Ministry of Public Security on Sunday to crack down on internet water armies, who have been attempting to control or disrupt online public opinions through releasing fake and harmful information.
Based on the "Clean up the Internet" campaign, the cybersecurity bureau has handled 600 or so cases and arrested more than 4,000 suspects over the past three years, officials said. Nevertheless, allured by network flow and the booming of"fan economy," paid posters never stopped their illegal and criminal activities online despite repeated prohibitions.
To make more profits, some water armies attempt to manipulate or disturb online public opinions through clout-chasing behaviors by releasing illegal or harmful information.
