Internet users and free speech advocates are concerned over the CCP’s latest censorship policy.  It requires all new computers sold in China, starting July 1, to carry software that blocks access to websites deemed “unhealthy” by the CCP.

The software, called “Green Dam-Youth Escort,” is supposedly designed to block pornography.  But the CCP could also use it to block users’ access to information on so-called “politically sensitive” topics.  The effort is backed by the CCP’s propaganda chief, Li Changchun.

Charles Mok, the chairman of the Hong Kong chapter of the Internet Society, is critical of the new software.  He told the New York Times, [quote,] “It’s like downloading spyware onto your computer, but the government is the spy.”

Computer makers Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and Lenovo told the New York Times they knew about the new rules, but declined to comment publicly. 

But the Times says industry executives anonymously expressed concern—they’re upset because Chinese authorities issued the orders without warning, plus they set an unrealistic six-week deadline for compliance.