defamation

A social media influencer was ordered to pay RMB 300,000 (approximately $42,000 USD) to a smartphone manufacturer for defamation, a ruling upheld on appeal. The case involved unsubstantiated claims, forcing the influencer to retract statements, apologize publicly, and remove defamatory content. The manufacturer emphasized constructive criticism while warning against disparagement, highlighting the legal risks of spreading misinformation in the tech industry.

BYD is aggressively pursuing legal action against online defamation and disinformation campaigns. Publicly announcing a crackdown on “black public relations” and media tactics, the EV giant is suing 37 accounts with 126 more under review. BYD has already won cases, with individuals ordered to apologize and pay damages for spreading false information, demonstrating their commitment to protecting their reputation and market fairness.

A Chinese court ruled in favor of retail giant Pang Dong Lai, fining a Douyin user RMB 400,000 (USD $55,000) for defamation. The case involved negative videos about red underwear purchased at a Pang Dong Lai store. The court ordered a formal apology and compensation, highlighting the financial risks of unsubstantiated online claims.

Chinese tech influencer Xiaosuanmiao Zhang was banned from gaining followers on Weibo and Douyin after a Beijing court upheld Xiaomi’s defamation lawsuit, requiring her to delete posts, issue a public apology, and pay ¥56,595 in damages. The ruling aligns with China’s *Private Sector Promotion Law* enacted May 20, 2024, which protects private enterprises from defamation. State media recently condemned online “toxic practices” targeting companies, while analysts view the verdict and law as dual mechanisms empowering businesses to combat reputational harm and curbing “digital vigilantism,” reflecting heightened regulatory focus on stabilizing corporate environments.