Internet access is tightly restricted in China, so proprietors do their best to skirt controls, sometimes with unexpected consequences. Twenty-four people died in a recent fire in an illegal cybercafe in Beijing because the only door out had been bolted by the owner to prevent police and inspectors from entering. Authorities called the tragedy Beijing’s most deadly fire since 1949, and ordered all cybercafes closed until investigations are completed and new regulations can be implemented. The practice of locking customers in overnight is common because cybercafes have special overnight rates popular with students.
