Vietnam has ordered a ban on the Telegram messaging app. This order targets local telecommunications providers. They must now block access to the platform. Vietnam cited national security concerns for this action. The company allegedly failed to comply with local laws. Authorities said Telegram did not cooperate on crime. This included addressing fraud and drug trafficking. Telecoms need to report on the ban by June 2nd. A recent government report highlighted widespread illicit activity. Nearly 70% of Telegram channels showed such links. This included anti-government content and subversive documents.
A Telegram spokesperson stated they were “surprised.” They claimed the company had responded to Vietnam’s legal requests. These responses were reportedly timely. Vietnam operates as a one-party communist state. The government maintains strict controls over online content. It has a record of pressuring global tech firms. These firms are pushed to adhere to local regulations. Human rights watchdogs have raised serious concerns. Freedom House warned of increasing censorship there. Punitive measures often target journalists, activists, and users. This creates a restrictive online environment.
This is not the first time Vietnam has confronted tech platforms.
The country has clashed with major companies before. In 2020, it reportedly threatened to block Facebook. This was unless Facebook restricted more online content. Despite this threat, Facebook remains available in Vietnam. In 2023, Vietnam considered banning the TikTok platform. Similar allegations of non-compliance were made against TikTok. However, TikTok also continues to operate in the country.
These past incidents show that outcomes can vary. Threats do not always lead to permanent bans.
Telegram’s Russian-born founder is Pavel Durov. French authorities arrested him earlier this year. The arrest stemmed from accusations against the platform. Telegram allegedly failed to curb cybercrime effectively. Financial fraud was another significant concern raised. After his arrest, Durov said he aims to improve Telegram. He wants to make the app “safer and stronger.” He explained that a rapid user increase to 950 million. This surge caused “growing pains” for the company. Durov admitted this made platform abuse easier for criminals. He has set a personal goal for improvement.
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