Abstract

This study analyzes and evaluates how privacy and personal information are presented in investigative reportage videos published by Tuổi Trẻ Online from 2019 to 2024. The research team applied the “gatekeeping” theory, content analysis methods, combined with in-depth interviews. Based on the theoretical framework, the findings conclude that the appearance or non-appearance of personal information is contingent upon journalists and editors of each newsroom. As such, the research offers a multi-faceted perspective on the portrayal of privacy and personal information on Tuoi Tre Online over the past five years. Notably, the enforcement of the 2018 Cybersecurity Law and Decree 13/2023 NĐ-CP will allow for the evaluation of journalists' ethical standards when creating investigative reportage videos. This will contribute to the development and improvement of journalistic ethics.

In addition, the research highlights the ambiguity in current legal regulations concerning individuals’ privacy in investigative journalism, particularly in cases where journalists are exempt from criminal liability for disclosing personal information. The study results may also serve as a reference for newsrooms, journalism training institutions, and policymakers in developing ethical guidelines and standards suited to the evolving media landscape.