Hanoi, May 23, 2025 – The Vietnamese government has officially directed domestic telecommunications providers to block Telegram, one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, citing serious concerns over national security, cybercrime, and regulatory noncompliance.
In an official dispatch issued by the Authority of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Science and Technology, all telecom operators are now required to implement technical measures to completely prevent Telegram’s operations within Vietnam. The order was made following a request from the Ministry of Public Security and must be implemented and reported back to the Authority by June 2, 2025.
Rising Threats from Telegram-Based Activities
According to law enforcement agencies, 68% of all Telegram groups and channels operating in Vietnam are deemed harmful, with many used to disseminate anti-state content and incite social unrest. Some of these groups reportedly host tens of thousands of members and have become hotbeds for the distribution of documents considered subversive.
In addition, Telegram has been linked to a surge in digital fraud, with authorities recording over 13,000 scam victims and financial losses exceeding VND 1 trillion (approximately USD 40 million). Alarmingly, the personal data of 23 million Vietnamese citizens has been illegally traded on platforms hosted through the app.
Legal Grounds and Regulatory Pressure
The ban is grounded in Article 9 of the Telecommunications Law, which prohibits the use of telecom infrastructure for activities that threaten national security and public order. As such, telecom providers are legally bound to take preventive measures, including service suspension or blocking access.
Under Decree 147/2024, which governs cross-border internet services, Telegram is required to comply with Vietnamese laws, including obligations to monitor, filter, and remove illegal content upon official request. However, officials claim Telegram has repeatedly failed to cooperate, despite multiple written notifications from the Authority of Telecommunications since January 1, 2025.
Telegram’s Global Controversy
Vietnam joins a growing list of countries taking regulatory action against Telegram due to non-cooperation. Interpol has labeled Telegram as one of the “least cooperative platforms” globally when it comes to working with law enforcement. Nations including Spain, Pakistan, Norway, China, India, Brazil, Thailand, and Indonesia have either restricted or blocked the service.
Notably, Russia—Telegram’s home country—also banned the app in 2018 after it refused to collaborate with Russian intelligence agencies, particularly in counter-terrorism cases.
A Pivotal Moment for Tech Governance in Vietnam
Vietnam’s decision underscores a broader effort to reinforce cyber sovereignty and data security amid a fast-evolving digital landscape. While the move may draw criticism from free speech advocates, the government maintains it is a necessary step to curb illegal activities and protect public interests.
The ban, if fully executed, could affect millions of Vietnamese users who rely on Telegram for messaging, business, and content sharing. The long-term implications for cross-border digital services in Vietnam remain to be seen, but authorities have signaled a firm stance: foreign platforms must respect local laws—or face consequences.
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Source: Vietnam Insider