BEIJING - A total of 56 websites spanning 18 provincial regions in China have been punished after they were involved in spreading pornographic or obscene audio and video programs.

Punishments included the closure of websites, deletion of content and fines, according to a statement issued by the National Office Against Pornographic and Illegal Publications on Tuesday.

Officials with the office said they will "severely" punish websites involved in spreading pornographic or vulgar content.

The office launched a campaign against online pornography, online game advertisements, mobile systems applications and online media players in March.