(Yicai Global) March 3 -- China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said it has told internet companies not to compel users to download apps.

The MIIT met with internet firms to point out that some service providers recommend apps in pop-up windows and force users to download them in order to read the full content, it said via Weibo today. That impedes browsing and infringes on users’ rights and interests, the ministry added.

The MIIT said it required the companies to strictly comply with laws and regulations, and stop forcing such downloads, adding that there should be a clear ‘cancel’ button when apps are recommended. Firms also must not interrupt users’ browsing by jumping to the app store.

The internet firms said they would follow regulations and operate in full compliance with the law. The MIIT did not name the companies.

Editor: Tom Litting