China shuts down 18 illegal live streaming apps

BEIJING - A total of 18 live streaming apps have been closed for disseminating illegal content, the Cyberspace Administration of China announced Sunday.

Some app operators were punished for the lack of a mechanism to censor content, and some anchors used the platforms to spread illegal content, dressed in military or police uniforms or were scantily dressed and acted flirtatiously, according to CAC.

Some anchors publicized their WeChat or QQ accounts during live streaming to induce fans to engage in prostitution.

"The online behavior of the anchors violated relevant Internet information service or live streaming laws and regulations, offended socialist core values, and brought negative impact to the healthy growth of the young and teenagers," CAC said.

The administration vowed to step up inspection and law enforcement.