China to 'clean up' instant messaging apps

Chinese authorities have launched a campaign to "eliminate" malpractice on instant messaging services.
They allege that some people have used such services "to distribute illegal and harmful information, seriously undermining public interests".


China has said suspects arrested in recent anti-terror sweeps shared their knowledge of making explosives via chat services and text messages.
Instant messaging apps have become hugely popular in China.

One of the biggest ones, WeChat, boasts more than 800 million users.
Over the past few years social media platforms have gained popularity among Chinese internet users keen to voice their
opinions and share unfiltered information.
However this has resulted in increased scrutiny and censorship by the authorities.

China even introduced a law to allow the government to imprison micro bloggers, and dozens were arrested last year.
Subsequently, many users have ditched social media platforms in favour of mobile messaging services.