Vietnam’s Ministry of Technology has instructed telecommunications providers to block the popular messaging app Telegram, citing the platform’s refusal to cooperate in efforts to combat alleged criminal activities committed by its users. This order is detailed in a government document dated May 21st, signed by the deputy head of the ministry’s communications department, and reviewed by Reuters.
The document mandates that telecoms companies implement measures to block Telegram and report their actions to the ministry by June 2nd. The ministry states it is acting on behalf of the country’s cybersecurity department, following a police report indicating that a significant majority – 68% of Vietnam’s 9,600 Telegram channels and groups – are engaged in illegal activities. These cited offenses include fraud, drug trafficking, and “cases suspected of being related to terrorism.”
A spokesperson for the technology ministry confirmed the authenticity of the document to Reuters, stating that the decision to block Telegram stems from the platform’s consistent refusal to provide the Vietnamese government with user data when requested as part of criminal investigations.
Vietnamese police and state news agencies have frequently issued warnings to the public regarding potential crimes, fraudulent schemes, and data leaks occurring within Telegram channels and groups.
As of the time of this report, Telegram and Vietnam’s Ministry of Technology have not yet responded to requests for comment on this development. This move by Vietnam represents a significant escalation in the ongoing tension between governments and encrypted messaging platforms regarding user data and law enforcement access.