Vietnam has implemented Decree 147, a sweeping internet regulation that mandates social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok to verify user identities and share data with authorities. Effective from December 25, 2024, this law requires tech giants to collect Vietnamese phone numbers or ID numbers, store personal information, and remove any content deemed 'illegal' within 24 hours.
The decree significantly impacts online activities, particularly restricting live streaming to verified accounts, which could disrupt social commerce on platforms like TikTok. Additionally, game publishers must limit underage players to one-hour sessions and a total of 180 minutes daily, affecting millions of Vietnam's 100 million residents who engage in gaming.
Critics, including activist Dang Thi Hue, argue that Decree 147 poses a serious threat to free speech and privacy, warning that it could be used to suppress dissenting voices. This law builds upon Vietnam's previous cybersecurity regulations and has drawn comparisons to China's stringent internet censorship model.
While the Vietnamese government claims the decree will enhance the investigation of online violations, human rights groups express concern that it will expose anonymous dissidents to greater risks of arrest. Tech companies now face a dilemma between user privacy and compliance, as many may feel pressured to adhere to the new regulations despite ethical concerns.
As Vietnam tightens its grip on the digital landscape, the implications of Decree 147 for online expression and user privacy remain uncertain. This development marks a pivotal shift in the country's approach to internet governance, potentially reshaping its digital future.