This is an important step to orient the behavior of organizations and individuals when participating in online activities according to Vietnamese cultural, ethical and legal standards.
The Code of Conduct on Culture in the Digital Environment is expected to promote a healthy, safe digital environment, while spreading positive values and national cultural identity in the new era. This document officially replaces the Code of Conduct on social networks issued in 2021.
The Code of Conduct identifies a broad scope of regulation, applicable to 5 main groups of subjects including: individuals; organizations and businesses providing social network and digital platform services; Internet service providers; press, media, advertising and art units; and other agencies and organizations.
The core goal is to enhance community responsibility, promote transparency and close coordination with management agencies to monitor and handle violations in cyberspace.
The Code of Conduct sets out general principles of conduct, requiring all subjects to comply with the law, respect the legitimate rights of others and preserve the good traditions of the nation. In particular, each user must be responsible for their behavior online and be ready to coordinate with functional agencies to handle offensive or illegal content. Cultural behavior is clearly defined as communicating, creating and sharing information in a responsible, civilized manner, in accordance with social ethical standards.
For individuals, the Code of Conduct encourages the use of real names and caution when posting personal information of others, especially to protect children's data. A noteworthy point is the regulation on handling fake news: when detecting false information, people need to notify the platform or functional agency; if posting fake news warnings, there must be clear identification signs in the form of "red crossing". Discussion and criticism online must be based on respect, not using vulgar language, not inciting violence or regional or religious discrimination.
Specifically for "Influencers", the Code of Conduct sets stricter standards. They are required to be exemplary in lifestyle, actively spread valuable content products and not take advantage of public trust for personal gain. When advertising or receiving sponsorship, these people must publicly inform viewers and ensure that the advertising content is truthful and legal.
Service providers and digital businesses also have a significant responsibility. They must clearly disclose the terms of use, proactively use AI, and analyze data to scan and prevent fraud and fake news.
At the same time, platforms must have mechanisms to protect children, display warnings of inappropriate content and provide easy-to-use violation reporting tools for users. The Code of Conduct also encourages businesses to consider cooperating with individuals who violate the law.
To ensure implementation, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will be responsible for disseminating, supervising and honoring individuals and organizations that have made positive contributions to the digital community.
The Ministry will consider announcing the list of influential people or community pages that violate the Code of Conduct so that media and advertising units can consider cooperation. The synchronous coordination between ministries, branches and localities is expected to create a revolution in the culture of behavior in the online environment in Vietnam.
