Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications has directed telecommunications providers to block access to the messaging app Telegram, citing the platform’s alleged failure to curb illegal activities conducted through its channels. The directive to block, dated May 21, mandates telecom companies to implement measures to restrict Telegram’s operations and report compliance by June 2.
The decision follows reports from the Ministry of Public Security indicating that approximately 68% of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam were involved in unlawful activities, including fraud, drug trafficking, and content suspected of links to terrorism. Authorities also allege that opposition groups have utilized Telegram to disseminate anti-government materials.
Telegram expressed surprise at the government’s move, stating that it had responded to all legal requests from Vietnam in a timely manner. A company representative noted that they received a formal notice from the Authority of Communications on the morning of May 24 and are processing the request, with a response deadline set for May 27.
Despite the government’s directive, Telegram remained accessible in Vietnam as of Friday. The platform, known for its encrypted messaging services, has faced scrutiny in various countries over concerns related to security and the spread of illicit content.
Vietnam’s action against Telegram aligns with its broader efforts to tighten control over digital platforms. The government has previously pressured tech giants like Facebook, Google, and TikTok to remove content deemed “toxic,” including material considered offensive, false, or anti-state. Under laws implemented on January 1, internet telecom operators are required to notify authorities of violations on their platforms. Officials claim that Telegram has disregarded multiple notices under these regulations.
The move also comes ahead of an upcoming visit from French President Emmanuel Macron, during which digital security and cooperation are expected to be key topics of discussion. Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, was briefly detained in France last year amid investigations into the platform’s role in facilitating criminal activities.
As Vietnam continues to enforce strict media censorship and monitor online content, the situation with Telegram underscores the challenges faced by global tech platforms operating in regions with stringent regulatory environments. The outcome of this directive may set a precedent for how Vietnam and similar governments address concerns over digital communication tools and their impact on national security and public order.
