Vietnam’s telecommunications landscape is undergoing a significant shift as the government takes decisive action against the messaging app Telegram. The Ministry of Science and Technology has accused the platform of failing to cooperate in addressing alleged criminal activities conducted by its users within the country.
Government Actions and Allegations
In a recent communication, the ministry alerted internet service providers to potential violations of the law associated with Telegram. The letter, dated May 21, instructed these providers to implement measures to restrict Telegram’s operations in Vietnam, with a deadline for reporting back set for June 2.
According to the government’s report, nearly 70 percent of the 9,600 channels on Telegram are said to disseminate “poisonous and bad information.” Authorities claim that various groups on the platform, comprising tens of thousands of members, have circulated “antistate documents” and engaged in “reactionary activities.” Furthermore, there are allegations that some Telegram groups have been involved in selling user data, drug trafficking, and even maintaining links to terrorist activities.
Vietnam’s government, known for its stringent stance on dissent, has historically moved quickly to suppress criticism, particularly when it emerges on social media platforms.
Regulatory Environment and Telegram’s Response
Last year, new regulations were introduced in Vietnam requiring platforms like Facebook and TikTok to verify user identities and provide user data to authorities. This move has been criticized as a further encroachment on freedom of expression in the communist-ruled nation.
In response to the government’s actions, a Telegram representative expressed surprise at the situation, emphasizing that the company has been timely in addressing legal requests from Vietnam. The representative noted that the deadline for responding to the latest request is May 27, and that they are currently processing it.
An official from the Ministry of Science and Technology indicated that the government’s decision stemmed from Telegram’s reluctance to share user data during criminal investigations. Despite the government’s orders, Telegram remained accessible in Vietnam as of Friday.
Context of Telegram’s Global Presence
With approximately 79.8 million internet users in Vietnam as of early 2025, and around 11.8 million of those using Telegram, the app’s influence in the region is notable. Globally, Telegram boasts close to one billion users and has faced scrutiny over security and data breach issues in various countries.
Adding to the platform’s challenges, its founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, has encountered legal troubles in France, where he was detained at a Paris airport and subsequently charged with failing to control extremist content on the app. Durov remains in France, unable to leave without official permission.
