Five computer game operators in China have together appealed to Chinese policy-makers, law enforcement departments and Internet firms, calling on them to work together to stiffen penalties for virtual asset crimes and to maintain a healthy development of the computer game industry.

Netease (NTES), Shanda (SNDA), The9 (NCTY), Kingsoft and Tencent united to collectively crusade against online crime, in one of the first times in China that these gaming rivals have worked together towards a common goal.

The five companies emphasized in their statement that virtual asset stealing, represented by online game account stealing and game equipment pilfering, has become social pollution for the Chinese online environment. They also called on legislation for the management of virtual asset transactions on C2C platforms to be increased.

In addition, the five parties propose that an alliance be established to facilitate the crackdown efforts.