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In January, Vietnam’s information system experienced 950 cyberattacks, a decrease of 33% from December 2023 and 23% from the same period in the previous year. The reduction in cyberattacks reflects the initial outcomes of efforts made by agencies and units to bolster cyber safety and security. These initiatives involve increased investments in monitoring systems, problem-detection mechanisms, and warning systems.
Nevertheless, information security experts emphasised the importance of agencies, organisations, and businesses remaining vigilant in ensuring information security. This caution is particularly crucial as cyber attackers tend to be more active in the lead-up to and during the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival.
Prior to the Tet holidays, it is advisable for agencies, organisations, and businesses to conduct a thorough review and examination of sensitive server devices, identifying any signs of attack and promptly removing any malicious code detected.
Furthermore, units should conduct comprehensive evaluations and tests to detect intrusions on server systems and applications, identifying security loopholes. Simultaneously, it is crucial to assess the level of risks and the impact of these security loopholes, followed by upgrading and fixing systems to minimise potential risks.
As technology advances, cybercriminals adapt their tactics accordingly. Both individuals and organisations face the ongoing task of remaining vigilant and adopting strong cybersecurity measures to protect against a constantly expanding range of threats. Essential practices for enhancing defence in the ever-changing cyber threat landscape include maintaining cyber hygiene through actions like using licensed software, consistently updating antivirus programmes, and educating users about potential risks.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, fortifying defences against such threats remains a pressing priority to safeguard sensitive data, critical infrastructure, and the overall stability of the nation’s digital ecosystem.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) of Vietnam recently pointed out several prevalent scams in the country. These include the resurgence of fraudulent money-back service scams, wherein groups of scammers leverage social networks to advertise services claiming to aid individuals who have fallen victim to fraudsters. These scammers purportedly promise assistance in recovering money lost due to fraudulent transactions or misappropriation.
Another scam is the year-end travel deception, wherein cybercriminals use social media platforms to promote heavily discounted tour packages and travel programmes. In some instances, these fraudsters adopt the guise of travel company employees or airline ticket office representatives, coaxing unsuspecting individuals into transferring payments to their accounts.
Vietnam’s government is ramping up cybersecurity measures across all public sectors. Regulatory frameworks and proactive measures by both service providers and authorities are needed to create a secure mobile environment for all users in Vietnam. With security in mind, the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, operating under the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), collaborated with major tech platforms in 2023 to counter the dissemination of harmful information and fake news.
These platforms were required to cooperate in removing content violating Vietnamese law, and implementing solutions to prevent and eliminate incorrect or toxic news. This resulted in a response rate exceeding 90% for removal requests and a shortened duration of 3-24 hours for handling and blocking violations.
The integration of AI technology by major online platforms facilitated automated scanning, detection, and handling of content in accordance with MIC requests. Notably, last May, the MIC, alongside five relevant ministries and sectors, conducted a comprehensive inspection of operations, leading to the identification of violations and the issuance of directives for enhanced management of cross-border service provision in the country.
