CAC Cracks Down on Online Content

Last week, the Cybersecurity Administration of China (CAC) released two new regulations on the Management of Information Services of Mobile Applications (APP) and the Management of Internet Information Search Services, both become effective August 1. These regulations mark a trend in the CAC’s position for tighter supervision, administration, and law enforcement for information content on the Internet in China.

The Mobile App regulation applies to all individuals and entities engaged in providing information services via mobile applications or app stores within the PRC.  According to the law, relevant qualifications should be obtained and app store service providers should register with the provincial CAC bureau within 30 days of going live. App stores should also supervise application providers to ensure that they are posting legal content. Additionally, it calls for user data to be recorded and stored for at least 60 days.  

The Internet Information Search Services regulation applies to all computer technologies that collect and process information for user's search needs and holds all search engine providers responsible for establishing sound systems to review information and provide real-time public information surveillance, emergency response, and personal information protection. They must also possess the ability to securely manage and control information and provide support to relevant government departments. This regulation was announced in the wake of the Baidu incident with Wei Zexi where users could not differentiate paid ads from regular search results.