Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security has proposed the establishment of a national database centre to prevent and combat fake news and false information, a report by Tuoi Tre said on Monday.

The report says that under a draft decree, fake news is defined as completely fabricated information, while false information refers to content that is partially untrue.

It said the proposed centre would be responsible for receiving reports, complaints and denunciations related to fake and misleading content.

It would also publicly announce verified cases, issue warnings, and provide guidance and clarification to the public.

In addition, the centre would coordinate data sharing and the labelling of fake or false information among ministries, agencies, and local authorities to ensure consistency nationwide.

The ministry has proposed imposing the maximum fines allowed under the Law on Handling Administrative Violations.

The ministry said individuals found violating regulations on fake and false information could face penalties of up to 100 million Vietnamese dong (approximately $3,850).

Organisations could be fined up to 200 million Vietnamese dong (about $7,700).

(Xinhua/NAN)