Telegram Blocked in Vietnam

Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications has ordered the blocking of Telegram, according to Reuters.

The move comes in response to the platform’s refusal to cooperate in investigations into alleged criminal activities by its users. The ministry stated that the decision was made on behalf of the country’s Cybersecurity Department.

Authorities cited police reports claiming that 68% of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam were involved in illegal activity — including fraud, drug trafficking, and terrorism. Officials also noted that “many groups with tens of thousands of participants were created by opposition and reactionary subjects spreading anti-government documents.” Telecom operators must confirm the block by June 2, 2025.

Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party maintains tight control over the media and cracks down on dissent. The government has previously called on platforms like Facebook, Google, YouTube, and TikTok to eliminate “toxic” content — including what it deems offensive, false, or anti-state.