Ho Chi Minh City aims to ensure protection for 100 percent of children who are victims of online abuse. Photo: AI
Under the plan, all general education institutions are expected to implement cybersecurity measures designed to protect children online.
Besides, all Internet service providers operating in the city will be required to integrate solutions that block harmful and inappropriate content.
The city has also pledged that all children who become victims of online abuse will receive support and intervention whenever requests are made by the children themselves, their families, or members of the community.
Authorities have vowed to strictly handle violations related to child protection regulations.
To achieve these goals, Ho Chi Minh City will continue reviewing and refining legal regulations concerning child protection in cyberspace.
The plan includes the implementation of user account verification requirements and improved mechanisms for managing children’s participation on social media platforms.
Scientific studies, conferences, and policy reviews will also be organized to assess real-world challenges and help develop more effective measures for safeguarding children online.
In addition, the city intends to mobilize social resources to invest in digital devices, technological solutions, and digital skills training for children living in disadvantaged areas.
Authorities also plan to develop a broader ecosystem of digital applications specifically designed for Vietnamese children.
Relevant departments and agencies have been tasked with intensifying inspections and evaluations of online service providers to ensure compliance with child protection requirements.
Businesses will be expected to cooperate closely with local authorities during investigations and in addressing cases involving the online exploitation or abuse of children.
Also, the city plans to develop an artificial intelligence-powered virtual assistant capable of providing guidance and advice when children face online threats, and helping users report incidents directly to relevant authorities.
Moreover, the city is also studying technological solutions that can identify victims and suspects through image and video data circulating online.
Ho Chi Minh City will organize competitions, educational programs, and interactive activities focused on cybersecurity and digital skills for children.
Authorities also aim to strengthen the role of families by promoting models that encourage parental involvement and guidance in children’s online activities.
Meanwhile, specialized forces and relevant agencies will receive additional training to improve their ability to receive reports, assist victims, and investigate online child abuse.
A permanent network of contact points will be established across the city to ensure that requests related to child protection in cyberspace can be promptly received and addressed.
Police lead online child protection efforts
The municipal Department of Public Security has been designated as the lead agency responsible for implementing the child protection and online development support program.
The force will oversee the establishment of the permanent response network and coordinate the handling of incidents involving children in cyberspace.
Police will work closely with telecoms companies, Internet providers, and online service operators to deploy protective measures and support investigations into online child exploitation and abuse.
Officers are in charge of strengthening inspections and enforcement activities, developing inter-agency coordination mechanisms, and expanding international cooperation in combating crimes involving the abuse and exploitation of children online.
