The Internet Society of China has set up an anti-malicious
software-working group to deal with increasing complaints from
Chinese Internet-surfers.
The working group is to conduct research in the field and will
work out the definition, characteristics and categories of
malicious software, and urge enterprises in the sector to exercise
self-discipline, according to industry insiders.
Pop-up advertisements and spy ware programs, as well as
junk-mail messages have long plagued Chinese computer users.
An anti-hooligan software organization in Beijing, which was
established by netizens spontaneously, recently launched lawsuits
against large Internet companies making and forcing the
installation of software that cannot be removed.
The trial of a malicious software case between Beijing-based
Zhongsou search Engine Company and a member of the anti-hooligan
software organization started on Friday in Beijing. Cases between
the organization and some other major Internet firms such as Yahoo
and eBay will go to court later.
Major portal websites such as Sina.com.cn, Netease.com,
Yahoo.com.cn and Baidu.com have signed a self-discipline agreement
on refusing malicious software.
An official from the Ministry of Information Industry said the
working group plays an important role in curbing malicious
software.
"Drafting rules through industry organizations of the industry
can serve as by-laws," said Zhan Zhongle, professor of the law
school of the Peking University.
(Xinhua News Agency October 30, 2006)