Hanoi, Vietnam – On May 21, 2025, Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications issued a directive to block the popular messaging app Telegram, citing its lack of cooperation with law enforcement in investigations involving criminal activities conducted by its users, according to a government document obtained by Reuters.
The decision comes after authorities identified that 68% of the approximately 9,600 Telegram channels and groups operating in Vietnam were involved in activities deemed illegal.
These violations include instances of fraud, drug trafficking, and potential terrorism-related activities, as outlined in the ministry’s report.
Vietnamese officials emphasized that Telegram’s failure to provide requested user information significantly hindered criminal investigations, prompting the government to take decisive action.
The ministry stated that the platform’s non-compliance with local regulations left authorities with no choice but to restrict access to the app.
This move reflects Vietnam’s broader efforts to regulate digital platforms and ensure compliance with national laws, particularly in addressing cybercrime. The block is expected to be implemented across internet service providers in the country, though no specific timeline for enforcement was detailed in the document.
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The decision has sparked concerns about digital privacy and freedom of expression, as Telegram has been a widely used platform for communication in Vietnam. Critics argue that such measures could limit access to information and stifle dissent, while supporters of the ban assert it is necessary to curb illegal activities.
