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Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s recent directive underscores the growing concern over cybersecurity threats in Vietnam, particularly in light of the increasing frequency of cyber attacks targeting various sectors, including government agencies, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
With cybercriminals exploiting vulnerabilities in information systems to carry out ransomware attacks and other malicious activities, the government has recognised the urgent need to bolster network security and safety measures to protect against potential disruptions and safeguard sensitive data.
In response to this pressing challenge, Prime Minister Chinh has called upon ministries, agencies, and local authorities to prioritise network security and safety as a matter of national importance. This directive, issued amid a surge in cyber attacks across the country, emphasises the need for coordinated efforts to enhance cybersecurity preparedness and resilience.
Ministers, ministerial-level officials, and local leaders are tasked with overseeing the implementation of comprehensive security measures, conducting thorough reviews of information systems under their jurisdiction, and reporting their findings to the Ministry of Information and Communications by the end of April 2024.
One of the key provisions of the directive is the requirement for allocating a minimum of 10% of the total funding for each IT application project toward strengthening network security. This investment in cybersecurity infrastructure is seen as essential for mitigating the risk of cyber-attacks and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of critical systems and data. By earmarking resources for cybersecurity measures, organisations can better protect themselves against evolving threats and minimise the potential impact of cyber incidents on their operations.
The urgency of enhancing network security and safety is further underscored by recent cybersecurity incidents affecting major enterprises in Vietnam. According to a cybersecurity firm, Vietnamese businesses faced a staggering 17.1 million offline cyber-attack threats in 2023, the highest in the Southeast Asian region. These attacks, which include ransomware incidents targeting large corporations, highlight the vulnerabilities inherent in the country’s digital infrastructure and the need for robust cybersecurity defences.
In response to these challenges, the Vietnamese government has taken proactive steps to strengthen cybersecurity regulations and enforcement mechanisms. The Authority of Information Safety has issued directives to enhance cyber information security protection across government agencies, organisations, and businesses.
These measures include conducting comprehensive assessments of information systems, addressing identified vulnerabilities, and implementing incident response plans to mitigate the impact of cyber attacks.
Moreover, the government has emphasised the importance of adhering to Directive 09/CT-TTg, which outlines specific deadlines for approving the safety levels of operating information systems and implementing comprehensive information security protection plans. By setting clear objectives and timelines for cybersecurity initiatives, the government aims to ensure that organisations prioritise cybersecurity as an integral component of their operations.
In addition to regulatory measures, the government is actively promoting collaboration between stakeholders in the cybersecurity ecosystem. Initiatives such as the matchmaking event under the India-EU Trade & Technology Council (TTC) provide opportunities for startups and SMEs to showcase innovative solutions in EV Battery Recycling Technologies. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, these initiatives contribute to the development of advanced cybersecurity technologies and practices.
Overall, Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening network security and safety reflects its recognition of cybersecurity as a critical enabler of economic growth and national security. By investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, implementing stringent regulations, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Vietnam aims to enhance its cyber resilience and safeguard its digital future against emerging threats.
