HANOI: Vietnam’s Ministry of Technology has instructed telecommunication service providers to block the messaging app Telegram, following allegations of its failure to cooperate in combating crimes committed by its users. The directive, issued on May 21, ordered telecom companies to take action and report back to the ministry by June 2.
The ministry’s move was made on behalf of the country’s cybersecurity department, following reports by the police that 68% of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam were involved in illegal activities, including fraud, drug trafficking, and suspected terrorism.
The document also noted that Telegram had not shared user data with the government when requested for criminal investigations. As of May 23, Telegram remained accessible in Vietnam, but the government is pushing for measures to block its operations within the country.
Telegram, a free-to-use platform with nearly one billion global users, has faced scrutiny globally over its security and data practices. In Vietnam, the Communist Party strictly controls media and has frequently urged tech companies like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to help censor content that is seen as anti-government or harmful. Telegram is accused of not adhering to local laws that require social media platforms to monitor, remove, and block illegal content.
The platform has also been linked to opposition groups that have used it to spread anti-government materials.
Telegram and the Vietnamese Ministry of Technology did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
— Reuters
