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China deletes social media accounts of independent news outlets

The Cyberspace Administration of China has erased 9,800 social media accounts of independent news providers who posted "sensational, vulgar or politically harmful content" on the internet, Reuters reported, citing a statement from the regulator.

The clampdown was reportedly part of a drive launched Oct. 20 that blocked accounts of those who breached online censorship norms or showcased the ruling Communist Party in a poor light.

Social media giant Tencent Holdings Ltd.'s WeChat and Weibo Corp. were also summoned and warned against any shortcomings to prevent uncivilized growth, the report said.

"The chaos among self-media accounts has seriously trampled on the dignity of the law and damaged the interests of the masses," the Cyberspace Administration of China said.

The internet watchdog had earlier suspended NYSE-listed news site Phoenix New Media Ltd. on grounds related to its coverage in September, amid a severe ongoing crackdown on content and authorities tightening their grip on the country's internet players.

Tencent was previously directed to erase all pornographic content from its WeChat app and shut accounts belonging to serious offenders.

Microblogging platform Weibo too, had agreed to scrub content on its live streaming platforms to "ensure they do not disrupt China's socialist core value."