Stop tolerating trashy online content

By NCHQ   November 30, 2022 | 04:43 pm PT
Stop tolerating trashy online content
Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram apps are seen on a smartphone on July 13, 2021. Photo by Reuters/Dado Ruvic
Recently, a well-known male TikTok personality made comments mocking the elderly and poor. Despite a strong backlash, he continued to make excuses rather than delivering a sincere apology.

Sadly, this TikToker is among many content creators using any type of material, no matter how inappropriate, to go viral on social media.

In Vietnam, these types of content are usually put in the category of "cyber trash." This term describes content created to spread hatred or seek popularity via inappropriate means, especially via social media.

This has become a major problem in the age of the internet, on which most young adults spend hours. Despite the internet providing many benefits, the uncontrollable spread of inappropriate content has become more severe, both in quantity and quality. More and more content of these types is being produced and published daily, with some becoming more explicit in its discrimination.

These types of inappropriate content are extremely influential on young and less-educated people. With no built-in filters to censor unwanted information, youngsters tend to find those videos, poor in quality and intellectual investment, appealing. Furthermore, the young are encouraged to support unbefitting video creation, which would eventually distract them from daily activities that could develop them personally and professionally.

Those content makers, to me, are morally twisted, sparing no means to become famous, despite the tremendous negative social impacts they bring.

How can society limit this cyberspace malady? First, in my opinion, internet users should change their mindset regarding inappropriate content. Upon exposure, instead of sharing or ignoring them, we as internet users need to take active measures in countering those content. This may include filing reports to social media corporates or respective domestic authorities.

Next, social media conglomerates should also tighten their grip to actively manage, control, and monitor content uploaded by users. Furthermore, they should cooperate with respective authorities so that social and judicial repercussions could be taken against such content creators.

Finally, people should improve their understanding of what should be accepted in cyberspace. Everyone should understand what can be socially accepted, clearly differentiate between criticism and discrimination, and learn the code of conduct in cyberspace. As we raise the overall standard of behavior in cyberspace, fewer individuals would try to seek popularity through inappropriate content creation.

Vietnam has already enacted a cybersecurity law. It is the responsibility of each citizen along with authorities to ensure the implementation of this law. "Cyber trash" is similar to any other type of waste. It cannot be eradicated in a matter of days, but as we move forward, one day our living space would be cleansed.

The opinions expressed here are personal and do not necessarily match VnExpress's viewpoints. Send your opinions here.
 
 
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