China shuts down over 100 dating websites in crackdown against porn

China has shut down more than 100 illegal dating websites and ordered 20 others to correct their practices, as part of a crackdown against fraud and pornography on match-making sites.

China's Internet watchdog said that 128 illegal dating websites were shut down because of a lack of registration records, and intentionally leaking user information, spreading pornography and vulgar content.

The Cyberspace Administration of China in a statement that said some sites have even allowed registered users to publish pornographic novels. It ordered 20 more websites to correct their practices.

Aside from targeting fraud rings, prostitution and fraudulent practices by service providers, the campaign launched in February also asked dating websites to enforce real-name registration and ensure the authenticity of their users.

Some match-making site operators have voiced their support for the campaign, state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Monday. Wu Linguang, chief executive officer of Jiayuan.com, which claimed to have more than 100 million users in 2014, said it will benefit the long-term development of the industry.

The campaign also involved participation by other departments, including the Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and Ministry of Civil Affairs.