Hanoi (VNA) – The Department of Maternal and Child Health under Ministry of Health has called on provincial and municipal health departments nationwide to step up measures to protect children in the online environment, ensuring timely prevention and handling of abuse and exploitation cases.

In an official dispatch sent to provincial and municipal health departments, the Department of Maternal and Child Health stressed that under Article 54 of the Law on Children, agencies and organisations have a duty to promote education, awareness and protection of children in the cyber space. Parents, teachers and caregivers must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to help children safeguard themselves, while providers of online products and services must guarantee the safety and privacy of minors as required by law.

The Department of Maternal and Child Health urged localities to intensify communication campaigns to raise public awareness, particularly among teachers, parents and children, about online safety. It recommended publicising the national child protection hotline 111 and local support contacts such as counselling centres and emergency assistance organisations. Close coordination with relevant sectors is needed to promptly intervene in and handle cases of abuse or suspected abuse online.

According to the hotline 111, cyberbullying has been on the rise, especially among children, as the digital space has continued to expand. Perpetrators often use tools such as email, social media, or group chat to repeatedly intimidate victims, spread false rumours, damage reputations, and isolate them from online communities. Identifying offenders is often difficult, leaving victims feeling trapped and mentally distressed.

Beyond bullying, children also face risks from offenders sending inappropriate messages or images. These individuals typically begin by building trust through conversation, then escalate to demands and threats, pressuring victims to share personal images or meet in person, and threatening to leak private content if they refuse.

Experts warn that children should think carefully before sharing any personal information, images, or videos online, as such content can be stored, copied and widely distributed, making it nearly impossible to erase completely. The responsible use of technologies, coupled with respectful and civil behaviour in all forms of digital communication, is essential.

Parents are advised to closely monitor their children’s device usage, set appropriate time limits for internet access, and choose suitable time an✱d places for online activities. In the event of an incident, parents should act as both a source of support and an investigator, working with schools and teachers to identify offenders and find solutions. Children can contact the hotline 111 at any time for counselling and assistance./.