Cyberspace authorities purge internet of 'troll farms'

China's cyberspace regulators shut down over 400 websites and platforms in 2024, punishing 2.39 million online accounts and merchants to combat activities associated with the "online troll farms".

"Troll farms" are groups hired to post online comments, make purchases and manipulate public opinion to boost popularity or attack competitors. These groups may create fake accounts, spread misinformation, or engage in astroturfing to disguise paid activity as genuine user engagement.

According to a news release from the Cyberspace Administration of China on Friday, authorities have further intensified efforts to crack down on these activities since the start of the new year.