Tencent explains online status of missing MH370 passengers  

腾讯公司解释马航失联乘客QQ在线问题

(ECNS)-- Users' status on Tencent QQ, an instant messaging software, can keep showing "online" after they turn down cell phones before they exit the mobile chatting application, Tencent Holdings, the developer of the program, said on Monday.  [Special coverage]

The company was responding to several relatives of passengers on board the missing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 who said they found some people showing up as online after the incident.

QQ user accounts can show an online status for a short period of time even after their cell phones are turned off, the company said.

The company also said it is prepared to contribute to the search and rescue efforts.