WICDA holds capacity-building program on corporate online reputation protection in Beijing

The World Internet Conference Digital & AI Academy (WICDA) held a capacity-building program on corporate online reputation protection in Beijing on Sept 22.

The event was part of the World Internet Conference Digital & AI Academy·Member Empowerment (WICDA·ME) series.

It brought together nearly 70 representatives from more than 50 WIC members. Liang Hao, executive deputy secretary-general of the WIC and executive vice dean of the WICDA, delivered opening remarks. 

Li Yi, deputy director of China Internet Illegal Information Reporting Center(CIIRC), gave a lecture on reporting online infringements involving companies and refuting false information.

Drawing on the center's experience in handling online reports, Li outlined  relevant policies and rules. He reviewed major risks facing businesses, including impersonation, misleading or distorted information, the fabrication and spread of rumors, insults and disparagement, and privacy breaches.

He also clarified common misconceptions about protecting corporate rights online and explained official reporting channels, submission requirements and the direct liaison mechanism for refuting business-related online rumors, helping participating companies better understand practical ways to protect their rights online.

During the discussion, participants shared the challenges they had encountered in their work in light of technological trends and common concerns. 

They raised questions about reporting AI-generated misinformation, responding to accounts engaged in malicious PR campaigns, tracing the sources of business-related rumors and pursuing legal remedies. 

Li answered each question and offered practical guidance, encouraging companies to proactively address reputational risks, communicate openly, respond quickly and handle the problems appropriately.

WIC members are both important participants in WIC events and a key focus of its services. The WICDA·ME capacity-building series for members is an important initiative to facilitate dialogue between government authorities and businesses and to support the development of member companies.

Liang said the WICDA has held two successful sessions under the series. Building on this foundation, the WICDA will continue to organize regular specialized programs on the issues of greatest concern to member companies, respond to their practical needs, strengthen its role as a bridge between government authorities and businesses, and make member services more targeted and effective, Liang added.

The WICDA serves as the WIC's platform for capacity-building cooperation and exchanges. It conducts digital and AI capacity-building programs for developing countries, businesses and other groups worldwide. The WICDA aims to cultivate digital and AI talent, bridge the digital and AI divide, and ensure that all countries benefit from inclusive development of digital technologies.