Controversy about search engine activities in China

Chinese search engine Baidu has received extensive criticism after a 21-year old student used the engine to seek out ineffective treatment for cancer.The student died last month after undergoing experimental treatment that was advertised by the search engine. His death sparked public resentment, and the Chinese government has announced it will investigate the role that Baidu has played in the student’s death. According to the state media, Baidu has allowed its online forums to be ‘flooded with quacks and advertisements for unlicensed hospitals.’