Vietnam academic libraries and fake news on social networks: revealing the truth and solving the problem

Abstract

In reaction to the spread of false news, misinformation, and disinformation via the internet and social media, librarians and other information specialists have been urged to implement courses and training to educate their readers and clients with actions and knowledge to spot fake news. In the context of Vietnam, little research has been conducted on the topic, and the given courses and training programs are no longer applicable in the battle against fake news. This research has been undertaken to get an in-depth understanding of how library users and customers use their knowledge to increase their awareness of the issues and build their critical thinking skills. SPSS is statistical software that was used to analyze the data collected from the survey of 600 participants from Vietnam National University Library and Digital knowledge Center Hanoi, Khanh Hoa University, and Sai Gon University. Findings indicate that insufficient digital literacy and media literacy are the primary variables influencing the dissemination of false information. According to the implementation of change drivers such as the internet of things, the advent of artificial intelligence, and the warning of cyber risks, a new method for educators and legislative administrators should be devised and included into school curricula.

Keywords: media users, fake news, cyber risks, digital information