'Think twice before posting online': information ministry on fake news

Le Quang Tu Do, Director of the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, said fake news is becoming increasingly prevalent and elusive these days, and even experts on preventing it are occasionally deceived.

"People need to cultivate the habit of not immediately believing whatever they see online, think twice before sharing information and comments online and consult friends or await confirmation from authorities."

As more and more people are going online to read news and using social media to share information, the Internet, where they can stay anonymous and information travels fast and far, is becoming an environment where fake news could thrive, he said.

Fake news affects the reputation of individuals and organizations and has economic costs.

Despite authorities' efforts, it has been difficult to prevent.

The Ministry of Information and Communications therefore published the handbook to educate people about their own responsibilities while using the Internet and teach the basic skills needed to detect fake news.