China clamps down on Internet porn

Those caught in the production and distribution of X-rated adult entertainment online face a variety of punishments including compulsory surveillance and imprisonment.  Serious offences such as sites that generate more than 250,000 hits will be regarded as "very severe" and those responsible could face life in prison.

The new rules apply to both non-profit and profit-making ventures that deal in sex, according to official news agency Xinhua.

Beijing is concerned that the accessibility of pornography on the internet will have a negative influence on its youth and society, stating that it "severely damaged social style, polluted the social environment, and harmed the physical and psychological health of the young people".

The new penalties came into effect on Monday (Sept 6).