An Anyang influencer posted a viral video claiming 258 mu of farmland offered free fruit picking, triggering hundreds to swarm and destroy crops worth 700,000 RMB. She was criminally detained for six days; farmers seek restitution via criminal complaint.

Social Context

This case tests China’s 2023 ‘Online Content Accountability Measures’, which hold influencers liable for material misinformation causing tangible economic loss. Rural landowners now routinely register ‘agritourism permits’ with county agriculture bureaus to legally authorize public access—unauthorized invitations may constitute incitement to property damage under Article 275 of the Criminal Law.

Safety Tip

Farmers should obtain written permission from landowners and file agritourism activity notices with local agricultural departments before promoting public access online.