Chinese courts have significantly intensified their crackdown on cyber-related crimes, concluding thousands of cases involving online fraud, illegal information use, and cyber harassment, according to a report presented by the country’s top court.
The developments were highlighted in a work report delivered by the President of China’s Supreme People’s Court to the National People’s Congress during its annual session in Beijing.
Surge in cybersecurity-related cases
According to the report, Chinese courts concluded 9,326 cases involving crimes endangering cybersecurity over the past five years, marking a 158.5% increase compared with the previous five-year period.
The judiciary also handled a large number of cases related to assisting cybercrime. In 2025 alone, courts concluded 25,000 cases involving the offence of assisting information network criminal activities, implicating around 38,000 individuals.
Authorities said the data reflects both the growing scale of cybercrime and stronger enforcement measures by law enforcement agencies.
Courts addressing new forms of cyber offences
The report highlighted the rise of emerging forms of cybercrime, including doxxing, online rumor-mongering, cyber violence, and online pyramid schemes.
In one case cited by authorities, two individuals illegally obtained and disclosed the personal information of voice actors linked to virtual idols. The accused allegedly published details about the victims’ movements and personal activities online, which led to harassment and stalking.
A court in Beijing’s Haidian district sentenced both offenders to one year and six months in prison and imposed fines of 10,000 yuan each.
Telecom fraud and cross-border cybercrime
Chinese courts also dealt with 41,000 telecom fraud cases involving about 85,000 people in 2025, reflecting continued efforts to combat online financial scams.
Authorities noted that some major fraud syndicates operating from northern Myanmar were dismantled, with courts reportedly sentencing several ringleaders to severe penalties.
Experts say the crackdown reflects growing concern over cybercrime as society becomes increasingly dependent on digital services and online platforms.
Technology does not remove legal responsibility
Legal experts emphasised that technological tools and emerging digital platforms cannot shield individuals from legal accountability.
They noted that cases involving assisted-driving technology were also addressed, with courts clarifying that drivers using automated driving features while intoxicated remain criminally liable for their actions.
Focus on prevention and public awareness
Authorities stressed the importance of coordinated efforts involving government agencies, technology platforms, businesses and the public to prevent cybercrime.
Experts also urged individuals to remain vigilant against evolving cyber fraud tactics and to comply with legal regulations while using digital platforms.
Broader judicial enforcement efforts
The report further revealed that Chinese courts handled around 159,000 foreign-related cases between 2021 and 2025, a significant increase from the previous five-year period.
Judicial authorities also strengthened anti-corruption enforcement, confiscating 18.14 billion yuan in illicit gains in 2025 as part of broader anti-corruption campaigns.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
