21世纪经济报道·2025-12-18 02:59Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the crackdown on a criminal gang involved in orchestrating negative information about electric vehicle brands, highlighting the organized and industrialized nature of these activities [1][3]. Group 1: Criminal Activities - The gang was responsible for a large number of negative articles targeting companies like Xiaomi, Huawei, and Li Auto, which were characterized by organized efforts to distort facts and maliciously defame these brands [1][6]. - The operation involved creating fake consumer experiences and amplifying isolated issues through manipulated content, severely damaging brand reputation and disrupting normal business operations [1][3]. Group 2: Investigation and Arrests - After a thorough investigation, the police identified over 3,000 negative articles linked to accounts with suspicious activity patterns, indicating a systematic operation likely run by "internet water armies" [3]. - The police analyzed over 80,000 pieces of online information and traced more than 100,000 financial transactions to uncover the gang's structure and operational methods, leading to the arrest of 12 suspects and the seizure of over 1 million yuan in illicit funds [3][6]. Group 3: Industry Response - Li Auto's legal department reported a surge in organized attacks against the company, emphasizing the serious implications of these actions on consumer trust and corporate reputation [6]. - In September, a joint initiative by multiple government departments was launched to address online chaos in the automotive industry, focusing on illegal profit-making, exaggerated claims, and malicious defamation [9].