BEIJING — Internet companies have been asked to examine and delete online videos featuring popular children’s characters in sexual, violent, and terrorist scenarios, according to a statement issued by China’s National Office Against Pornographic and Illegal Publications on Jan 24.

Any company which broadcasts such videos will be punished, said an official from the office.

Two offices of Guangzhou Yinjun Trade Company were closed by authorities in South China’s Guangdong province on Jan 22 for producing disturbing videos and translating subtitles of foreign videos.

The move is a reaction to the controversial “Elsagate” scandal, public furor surrounding inappropriate cartoons believed to be aimed at children. Elsa is the main character of the Disney animation “Frozen,” and is prevalent in many disturbing cartoons on online video website YouTube.

The public can provide information on individuals or companies suspected of creating or broadcasting such content by calling 12390 or visiting shdf.gov.cn, the office said.