Celebrity microblogger's account closed for posting illegal info

BEIJING - China's top Internet regulator on Sunday ordered the microblogging platforms of Sina and Tencent to shut down the accounts of Ren Zhiqiang, a celebrity blogger and property developer, for spreading illegal information.

"Cyberspace is not a lawless field and it should not be used to spread illegal information by anyone," said Jiang Jun, spokesperson with the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC).

Ren's microblog accounts have been closed after netizens reported that he had regularly posted illegal information, "resulting in a vile influence," according to Jiang.

The CAC made the decision in accordance with China's laws and regulations, including a top legislature decision on safeguarding Internet security and a State Council circular which authorized the administration to manage online information and content.

Jiang called on both the Internet service providers and netizens to enhance awareness and guard "the bottom lines" of laws, the socialist system, the national and citizen's legal interests, social order, ethics and the authenticity of information.

The celebrity microbloggers as well as bloggers dubbed "Big Vs" for their large number of followers should use their influence correctly, exemplify in observing laws, shoulder their due social responsibilities, and promote "positive energy" actively, Jiang said.

The administration vowed intensified law enforcement efforts in monitoring and managing online information and content, saying that it would not allow the users of the closed accounts to register again under another name.