Eighteen live video streaming apps shut down for spreading illegal content
TECH & SCI
By Xie Zhenqi

2017-04-02 14:45 GMT+8

Recently, 18 social live video streaming apps, including Zank and BlueSky, have been removed from Apple's App Store and shut down by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), due to the illegal content in these apps.
A thorough investigation has found that the apps failed to "take their responsibilities on their part" and lacked the necessary scrutiny to provide safe content. Some hosts used the platforms to widely spread shows that are illegal or violate the country's regulations as well.
For example, some hosts wore military uniforms or army badges, while others were scantily clad and displayed "seductive behavior." In addition, some of them even spread private Wechat and QQ accounts, luring fans to engage in pornography via social platforms.
Screenshot of the statement issue on Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC)'s website. / CAC Photo 
The hosts’ actions have severely violated the laws of the Regulation on Internet Information Service of the People's Republic of China, and created negative effects on the younger generation.
As the new Internet information exchange platforms, these live video streaming apps should take on responsibility, advocate positive energy, and spread healthy content, according to a spokesperson of the CAC.
Once CAC discovers illegal content, they will punish the publishers according to relevant rules without hesitation. Flagging is welcomed, and the CAC will continue working to eradicate such apps.
At least 1,879 hosts have been blacklisted so far, and they will be no longer able to register new accounts on any live video streaming apps. 

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