China has said suspects arrested in recent anti-terror sweeps shared their knowledge of making explosives via chat services and text messages.
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One of the biggest ones, WeChat, boasts more than 800 million users.
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Over the past few years social media platforms have gained popularity among Chinese internet users keen to voice their opinions and share unfiltered information.
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However, this has resulted in increased scrutiny and censorship by the authorities.
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China even introduced a law to allow the government to imprison micro bloggers, and dozens were arrested last year.
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Subsequently, many users have ditched social media platforms in favor of mobile messaging services.
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China's state-owned media agency, Xinhua, reported that the latest campaign will "target public accounts on instant messaging services, which can spread information on a large scale and mobilize followers".
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It will crack down on those spreading rumors and information relating to violence, terrorism and pornography.
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Those using instant messaging services for fraud will also be targeted.
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Seven firms offering instant messaging services, including WeChat, Momo, Mi Talk and Yixin, have agreed to co-operate with the authorities and launch internal inspections.Â