Real-name registration required for online comment: regulator

(ECNS) -- The Cyberspace Administration of China has required websites to only allow users who have finished real-name registration to make comments on the Internet, according to a new rule.

The rule with 13 articles, which will become effective on Oct. 1, specifies responsibilities of both website operators and users as well as measures to protect user privacy.

An official with the administration said the rules aim to improve management of online comments in accordance with China's recently implemented Cyber Security Law. Some comments are found to spread rumors, distribute illegal information and harm public opinion, it was added.

Websites need to require users to verify their accounts, otherwise, they would be banned from posting any content. Comments also need checks by website operators before they appear on the Internet.

Portals that offer danmu services, a comment sharing system that enables viewers to plaster comments directly on top of an uploaded video, are required to present comments on a conventional static web page.

Sites are also required to establish a comments supervision system and have enough moderators to better detect and take action against illegal information.

According to the new rule, cyberspace regulators will conduct credit assessments among comment service providers and establish a system of blacklisting to ensure sites abide by the law.