Developing digital competence among young people in Hanoi for identifying and responding to fake news on social media: A survey based-study

Abstract

This study examines the digital competence and information behavior in identifying and responding to fake news on social media, particularly during emergencies such as natural disasters and epidemics. Drawing on a survey of 250 participants across two age groups (20-30 and 31-39 years), the research evaluates digital competence based on the DIGCOMP 2.2 framework, alongside information reception, verification, and sharing behaviors, as well as awareness and responses to fake news. Results indicate that both digital competence and information behavior are positively associated with the ability to detect and respond to fake news, with information behavior exerting a stronger influence. While differences across age groups and educational levels are not statistically significant, the findings highlight the importance of promoting digital skills and fostering responsible information behaviors to reduce the impact of fake news within the community.