Social media users in Vietnam will soon be required to verify their identities as part of strict new regulations aimed at tightening internet controls. The law, which takes effect on December 25, mandates tech companies like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to store user data in Vietnam, provide it to authorities upon request, and remove content deemed “illegal” within 24 hours.
Known as Decree 147, the regulation builds on Vietnam’s 2018 cybersecurity law, which faced criticism from global organizations, including the US and EU, for imposing heavy censorship. Critics argue that the new rules further restrict free speech and expose anonymous dissenters to arrest.
The Vietnamese government, led by its communist administration, is known for cracking down on dissent, particularly online. In October, blogger Duong Van Thai was sentenced to 12 years in prison for spreading anti-state content. Earlier this year, renowned journalist Huy Duc, known for his outspoken blog posts on corruption and media control, was arrested for posts that allegedly harmed state interests.
Rights activists warn the new decree could stifle freedom of expression. “This will likely push people towards self-censorship, avoiding dissent to ensure their safety,” said Nguyen Hoang Vi, a blogger and human rights advocate. She added that such measures could harm Vietnam’s democratic development.
The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), however, defended the law, stating it aims to maintain social order, national security, and sovereignty online. Only verified accounts will be allowed to livestream, affecting many who rely on social platforms for income.
Aside from social media controls, the decree introduces restrictions on gaming for minors to curb addiction. Game publishers are required to limit playtime to one hour per session and a maximum of three hours daily. Nguyen Minh Hieu, a 17-year-old gamer, described the rules as “tough” to follow. “Games are designed to be addictive. It’s hard to stop after just one session,” he said.
Vietnam has over 65 million Facebook users, 60 million YouTube users, and 20 million TikTok users, according to government data. These platforms must now verify users’ accounts using phone numbers or official identification and store personal information, including full names and birth dates.
Human rights groups have criticized the decree, calling it repressive. “The law doesn’t address real security concerns and undermines fundamental human rights,” said Patricia Gossman, Asia director at Human Rights Watch.
Major platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok, have yet to comment on the new law. Rights groups are urging Vietnam to repeal the decree, warning it could be used as a tool to silence dissent and suppress free speech.
