Independent China news platform Radii China is reporting the closure of 50,000 accounts and 8,000 group chats on social media app WeChat.
The accounts reportedly relate to illegal World Cup gambling.
“During the World Cup, World Cup gambling websites have been shut down by the government, causing some betting activities to migrate to social platforms,” a WeChat statement reads.
“We appeal to the majority of users to watch the World Cup rationally, to appreciate the competitive nature of football and respect the spirit of the game, and keep away from gambling.”