Navigating Digital Copyright and Online Content Regulations in Vietnam
Regulatory officials are tightening oversight of digital content creators and online platforms to address rising copyright disputes and ensure legal compliance. Le Quang Tu Do, Director of the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, announced that new government mandates aim to clarify regulations for KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders), KOCs (Key Opinion Consumers), and businesses managing digital channels. These measures, including Decree No. 174/2026/ND-CP, seek to eliminate the “journalistic” nature of social media sites and establish greater transparency in the digital environment.
Strengthening Legal Compliance for Digital Creators
Beginning July 1, 2026, Decree No. 174/2026/ND-CP will enforce stricter standards for companies and creators operating online. According to Le Quang Tu Do, the legal framework is evolving to include more specific violations and increased penalties for non-compliance. These regulations cover a wide range of activities, including telecommunications, wireless frequencies, electronic transactions, and online advertising. The primary goal is to ensure that entities managing websites and social media channels fully understand their legal responsibilities to avoid administrative sanctions.
Decree No. 174/2026/ND-CP, which takes effect on July 1, 2026, explicitly aims to end the “journalistic” character of social media and electronic information websites to ensure greater digital transparency.
Copyright Enforcement in the Digital Era
Pham Thi Kim Oanh, Deputy Director of the Copyright Office under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, highlighted that the sheer volume of daily online content—including millions of videos and thousands of articles—has made copyright disputes a critical issue. Addressing the application of Decree No. 341/2025/ND-CP, she emphasized that simply citing a source or providing a link does not grant a user the right to redistribute content. Creators must secure explicit permission from copyright holders before using music, images, or articles, unless the content falls under specific legal exceptions.
The shift toward mandatory copyright vetting mechanisms for Multi-Content Networks (MCNs) suggests that platforms will soon be held to a higher standard of accountability. By requiring centralized contact points for infringement reports, the government is moving away from passive observation toward a model of active cooperation between digital service providers, creators, and state agencies.
Future Implications for Online Platforms
Looking ahead, businesses providing digital services may face increased pressure to implement automated technology to identify and remove infringing content. Experts suggest that MCNs will likely be required to formalize copyright screening processes within their creator contracts. As these administrative regulations take hold, providers that fail to respond promptly to takedown requests or neglect data management could face heightened enforcement actions from regulatory bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new government decrees?
The decrees are designed to clarify legal responsibilities for digital entities, curb violations in online advertising and information sectors, and protect intellectual property rights in the digital space.
Does linking to an article online constitute legal use?
No. According to the Copyright Office, simply attaching a link or citing a source does not automatically grant the right to use protected content. Permission from the copyright holder is required unless the use qualifies for a specific legal exception.
What is expected of digital service providers and MCNs?
Providers are expected to implement technical solutions for content identification, establish clear mechanisms for handling copyright infringement reports, and ensure their contracts with creators clearly define legal responsibilities.
How will these stricter enforcement measures change the way you interact with and share content on social media platforms?