Stop fraudsters preying on superstition

SOME SELF-PROCLAIMED TAOIST PRIESTS sell various kinds of talismans on the internet claiming they can help buyers to realize their dreams, exorcise evil spirits or be lucky in love. Beijing News comments:

Most of the so-called Taoist priests doing e-commerce business are fraudsters, and the commodities they sell online are not normal religious articles as they claim.

This kind of business has its roots in people's belief in traditional culture, but it is necessary to point out that these "wish granters" have nothing to do with religious belief.

Worse, these charlatans even tout homemade "medicines", which they say have special therapeutic effects for certain diseases. If unchecked, it will only be matter of time for the "magic" drugs to reveal their harmful nature.

The government should raise the public's awareness of such practices. As the trade records show many psychic "Taoist masters" have made good money from their business over past years without being disturbed or questioned by any relevant parties.

The e-commerce companies have apparently failed to fulfill their duties as supervisors to ensure all commercial activities on their platforms abide by the law, public order and good customs. The internet should by no means be a lawless place to accommodate illegal deeds.

With Taoism as a disguise, what these uncertified Taoist priests do is irrelevant to religion. It is fraud that takes advantage of those who believe in Taoism. According to the Regulations on Religious Affairs, the illegal profits of these fake Taoist priests' should be confiscated, and each should pay a fine of up to 10,000 yuan ($1,577).

The commerce and public security departments are obliged to make joint efforts to crack down on the illegal trade. And the e-commerce companies must take the initiative to cleanse their platforms.