Vietnam Enforces New Internet Rules: A Blow to Digital Freedoms

Vietnam’s new internet regulations, enforced under "Decree 147," mark a significant shift in the country’s approach to digital platforms. Requiring tech giants like Facebook, TikTok, and others to verify user identities through phone numbers or Vietnamese ID numbers, the decree mandates that this data be stored alongside users' full names and dates of birth. Social media platforms must also hand over this information to authorities upon request and comply with content takedown orders within 24 hours, raising concerns over privacy and freedom of expression.

The new rules also restrict live streaming to verified accounts, impacting social commerce, a growing source of income for many Vietnamese users. Activist Dang Thi Hue, who has a significant following on Facebook, voiced concerns that these measures could suppress dissenting voices. Former political prisoner Le Anh Hung echoed this sentiment, suggesting that vague definitions of "illegal content" could lead to widespread censorship and self-censorship.

Decree 147 builds on Vietnam’s 2018 cybersecurity law, criticized internationally for mirroring China’s stringent internet regulations. Vietnam’s government, known for swiftly silencing dissent, has already jailed several bloggers and critics, such as Duong Van Thai, who was sentenced to 12 years in prison in October for publishing anti-state content.

In addition to social media restrictions, the decree imposes gaming curbs for under-18s to combat addiction. Publishers must enforce limits, restricting sessions to one hour per game and no more than 180 minutes daily. However, these regulations appear to be loosely monitored. In gaming cafes across Hanoi, young players and business owners remain largely unaware of the new rules, continuing their activities as usual.

Vietnam, with a population of over 100 million, boasts 65 million Facebook users, 60 million YouTube users, and 20 million TikTok users. As digital platforms dominate communication, trade, and entertainment, these rules could significantly reshape online behavior. While the government argues that these measures aim to promote safety and accountability, critics see them as part of a broader effort to stifle dissent and limit freedoms in an increasingly connected society.

The decree’s impact remains to be seen, as implementation challenges and public resistance could hinder enforcement. However, it undeniably signals Vietnam’s determination to tighten control over the digital landscape.

Refrence From: www.ndtv.com