Vietnam’s Recent Action Against Telegram: An Overview
In a significant move, Vietnam has decided to block access to the messaging platform Telegram, citing the company’s lack of cooperation with local authorities in curbing criminal activities conducted via the app. This decision is part of the government’s broader effort to tackle what they describe as hazardous content circulating on various Telegram channels.
### Scope of the Problem
According to reports, Vietnamese authorities have asserted that nearly 70% of the approximately 10,000 Telegram channels and groups within the country disseminate “toxic and harmful information.” This alarming statistic indicates a severe challenge to law enforcement, with some groups purportedly linked to illegal activities, including drug trafficking and terrorist operations.
The concerns raised prompted the Vietnamese government to instruct all telecom providers to implement measures aimed at restricting Telegram’s operations within the country. This directive was issued by the Head of the Telecom department on May 21, 2025, with a requirement to update the ministry on progress by June 2.
### Blocking Mechanism
While the blocking of Telegram was not immediate, as of the current date, access to the app has been reportedly hindered for users in Vietnam. Individuals residing in or visiting the country now face the prospect of utilizing reliable VPN services to continue accessing this popular messaging platform.
### Telegram’s Response
In response to the situation, a spokesperson for Telegram expressed surprise at the government’s claims, indicating that the platform had complied with legal requests from Vietnam in a timely manner. However, according to a spokesperson from the government, the platform did not fulfill requests for user data as stipulated by Vietnamese law.
This predicament arises in the context of a controversial regulation enacted in December of the previous year, which mandates that social media services store data pertaining to Vietnamese users and provide it to authorities upon request. The regulation is part of Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to enhance internet governance and user data security.
### Background Context
The enforcement of this regulation comes after Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was detained in France in August 2024. His arrest was reportedly linked to allegations concerning inadequate moderation practices on the app, which officials claimed enabled the proliferation of criminal conduct. In the wake of this incident, Telegram appears to have strengthened its content moderation policies in an attempt to address these pressing issues.
### The Role of VPNs
For users in Vietnam seeking to overcome the Telegram blockade, virtual private networks (VPNs) present a feasible solution. A VPN functions as security software that encrypts internet connections while disguising users’ IP addresses. This technology allows individuals to appear as if they are browsing from different locations, thereby bypassing geographical restrictions.
Local journalists and internet users have reported challenges in accessing Telegram without a VPN since May 25, 2025. Confirmations from users indicate that while Telegram is currently blocked, VPN services remain effective in circumventing these limitations. Utilizing a VPN involves downloading a reputable service, selecting a server based in a region where Telegram is accessible, and continuing to use the app without interruptions.
For those who prefer not to invest in premium VPN services, numerous reliable free options are available. Additionally, the Tor browser serves as a compelling alternative, allowing users to maintain anonymity online and evade internet censorship at no cost.
### Conclusion
Vietnam’s recent blocking of Telegram reflects ongoing tensions between governmental regulations and the operations of social media platforms. As the government intensifies efforts to regulate online content, users in the country must navigate these changes through innovative solutions like VPNs. The development serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between maintaining security and preserving access to digital communication tools.
