Xiaomi has achieved a significant victory in its fight against a coordinated online smear campaign. On May 15, 2025, the Chinese tech giant announced that it successfully dismantled a targeted “Black PR” operation that had been running since December 2024, thanks to collaboration with Chinese law enforcement. This criminal activity employed automated software and nearly 10,000 fake social media profiles to tarnish Xiaomi’s reputation, particularly during the launch of its electric vehicle (EV) series and the innovative Xiaomi HyperConnect technology ecosystem. Below, we summarize the events, reactions, and implications of this case based on available online information.

The Nature of the Campaign

According to internal reports and Xiaomi’s statement, the smear campaign began in late 2024. An organized group utilized automated “Black Manuscript” software to fabricate and disseminate false narratives about Xiaomi. These misleading stories were strategically released through a network of bot-operated social media accounts. The tactics included:

• Spreading Misinformation: Publishing false claims about Xiaomi’s products and business practices.
• Unfavorable Comparisons: Manipulating data to portray Xiaomi negatively against competitors.
• Dividing the Fan Community: Using disinformation to sow discord and distrust among Xiaomi’s customers and supporters.

The aim was to damage Xiaomi’s public image, especially during the highly anticipated launch of the YU7 SUV on May 22, 2025, and the introduction of its first proprietary smartphone chip, the Xring O1. Analysts speculate that commercial motives, possibly driven by competitors, fueled the campaign, as Xiaomi aggressively expands into the EV and semiconductor markets.

Xiaomi’s Response to the Attack

Xiaomi maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards defamation and views this case as essential not only for its brand image but also for promoting digital integrity. A company spokesperson stated, “Such activities undermine user trust, disrupt the tech community, and ultimately harm consumers who expect honest and fair product reviews.”

Xiaomi’s response includes:

• Legal Action: Continuing to pursue criminal prosecution against those responsible and initiating further lawsuits for defamation.
• Investing in Online Reputation Security: Developing technologies and strategies to detect and prevent future attacks.
• Promoting Fair Digital Practices: Collaborating with authorities and other companies to foster a transparent and fair digital environment both in China and globally.

This approach underscores Xiaomi’s commitment to safeguarding not just its brand but the entire digital ecosystem from manipulative disinformation tactics.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

Xiaomi’s victory carries significant implications:

• Brand Protection: The success illustrates that companies can effectively counter organized smear campaigns through legal and technological means.
• Consumer Trust: By combating misinformation, Xiaomi strengthens customer confidence in the integrity of its products and reviews.
• Setting a Precedent: This case may encourage other businesses to adopt similar measures against cyber threats, potentially leading to stricter regulations and higher standards in the digital landscape.

The case highlights the growing challenges brands face in the digital age, especially in competitive sectors like EVs and semiconductors. For Xiaomi, protecting its brand image is crucial for succeeding in the global market.

As Xiaomi continues its legal efforts and invests in technologies to safeguard its reputation, it also advocates for greater collaboration among governments, tech companies, and platforms to combat online misinformation and defamation. This case serves as a wake-up call for both consumers and businesses: the digital realm demands responsibility, transparency, and proactive measures to create a fair and trustworthy environment.

Xiaomi online smear campaign

Xiaomi’s recent legal triumph against an online smear campaign showcases the company’s commitment to digital integrity and consumer trust.

Tags: Xiaomi,YU7,HyperConnect,Xring O1,legal battle,online reputation