China Launches Two-Month Crackdown on Social Media Content

China’s top internet regulator has announced a sweeping two-month crackdown on social media platforms, pledging to curb what it describes as “malicious incitement of conflict” and “negative outlooks on life such as world-weariness.”

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said the campaign is designed to regulate harmful online activity and promote a “more civilised and rational” digital environment. However, the notice did not specify when the initiative will officially begin.

The move follows penalties imposed this month on three major platforms — Weibo, Kuaishou, and Xiaohongshu (known in English as Rednote) — which authorities accused of neglecting content management duties. On Saturday, the CAC revealed that Weibo and Kuaishou would face “disciplinary and punitive measures” for amplifying celebrity gossip and what it called “undesirable” material. Officials have yet to clarify what punishments will be applied.

In its statement, the regulator outlined several online issues under scrutiny, including the spread of rumours about the economy, finance, welfare, and public policy. The campaign also targets content linking identity, region, or gender to sensitive issues in ways authorities deem stigmatising, as well as posts that exaggerate negative events or encourage defeatist attitudes.

Observers note the crackdown could extend to popular youth trends such as “lying flat” or “letting it rot,” phrases that reject China’s demanding work culture in favour of a more relaxed lifestyle.

This is not the first time officials have warned against online speech that challenges social norms. In July, authorities in Zhejiang province cautioned comedians against making jokes that stir gender discord. Similarly, Weibo has previously flagged content expressing “pessimistic” views on China’s economy.

The CAC maintains the campaign is aimed at protecting public order online, but critics say it underscores Beijing’s tight grip on digital expression and its intolerance for narratives that diverge from state priorities.