Net-savvy policemen stepped out in southern China's Shenzhen City on Friday, in a move to be an enormous hit on crimes committed on the Internet.

The team, dubbed "Internet policemen" by netizens, is actually composed of some 150 computer professionals whose techniques are as smart as hackers. Formally set up in January of last year, the group is to oversee a new phase in Chinese Internet supervision.

The high-tech policemen average less than 30 years of age, some of them just graduated from college last year. Before starting work, all of them will undergo a 3-month training program.

Their major responsibility is to maintain smooth Internet operations and ensure the security of all online transactions.

With their advanced computer knowledge, the Internet policemen will be able to easily handle attacks launched by hackers, and viruses. At the same time, those suspected of publishing false information, pornography, threats or gambling opportunities on the Internet will be traced out.

Meanwhile, a police signal has also been installed on the Internet, in order to receive alerts from netizens.

Experts predict that as Internet crimes grow more and more rampant, cyber police will play a greater role in maintaining stability and social order.

(CRI January 28, 2007)