The Global Times on August 25, 2017, reported that the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) had on August 25, announced that Chinese Internet users must register using their real names and information before they can be allowed to post online comments. Stating that 'the websites' feedback services have enriched netizens' Internet life, but has also led to the spread of rumors, filthy language and illegal information', the guideline mandated that websites are required to establish a review and real-time verification system to immediately detect and deal with illegal information. It clarified "The system targets public information rather than personal messages, and will not affect privacy. Freedom of speech will not be violated since the system deals with illegal information." Meanwhile, it instructed cyberspace offices to conduct regular credit assessments of providers of feedback services and establish a black list. The same day the CAC also issued another guideline for online forums and communities, such as Baidu Tieba and tianya.cn. insisting that those who use Internet forums must register with the websites using their real name before being allowed to post. Employees of online forums are likewise prohibited from seeking illegitimate interests by publishing, forwarding, deleting or altering the posts on their platforms. 

(Comment: Earlier this month, the CAC launched investigations into popular Chinese social networks WeChat, Sina Weibo and Baidu Tieba for suspected violations of China's Cybersecurity Law.)