Members of China's Communist Party are encouraged to think before they post on WeChat to avoid spreading rumors or 'inappropriate' information, according to official guidelines released Saturday.



The guidelines require that Party members promote 'positive energy' and 'resolute political stances' on their personal account that resist Western ideologies, read the release on dangjian.cn, a site affiliated with China's publicity bureau.



Those found in violation will face punishment.



The move is a response to a speech by CPC General Secretary Xi Jinping in April, which called for Party members to go online and collect public opinion.



Examples of inappropriate posts include conducting unofficial polls suspected of private use or interests, according to the guideline.



In addition, any posted materials found sensitive or work-related will be considered as a leak of classified information.



The guidelines also encourage CPC members to consider the information's source before posting, as well as protect their WeChat accounts from identity theft.

guancha.cn