September 2nd, 2024

China's internet police went from targeting bloggers to their followers

China's internet censorship is increasingly targeting followers of dissenting bloggers, with police interrogating individuals about their online activities. The government aims to combat online rumors and suppress political discourse.

Read original articleLink Icon
China's internet police went from targeting bloggers to their followers

China's internet censorship is increasingly targeting not just bloggers but also their followers, as evidenced by recent police interrogations of individuals associated with liberal online communities. The crackdown has intensified, with followers of influential figures like vlogger Yang Minghao being questioned about their online activities and connections. This shift marks a significant expansion of the state's surveillance efforts, as authorities seek to suppress any form of political discourse, even in private settings. The case of Duan, a university student detained for 24 hours after engaging in discussions on Discord, highlights the risks faced by those who participate in these online communities. The Chinese government has designated 2024 as a year to combat online rumors, leading to increased scrutiny of social media users, including those who follow dissenting voices. Influential commentators, even those supportive of the government, have faced repercussions for expressing views that diverge from official narratives. This trend reflects a broader strategy of repression, where the state monitors and controls not only public discourse but also private interactions among citizens. The ongoing situation indicates a growing concern among users about their safety and the potential consequences of their online affiliations.

- China's censorship is expanding to include followers of dissenting bloggers.

- Police are interrogating individuals about their online activities and connections.

- The government has intensified efforts to combat online rumors in 2024.

- Even pro-government commentators face repercussions for diverging views.

- The crackdown reflects a broader strategy of repression against political discourse.

Link Icon 0 comments