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In the face of increasing cyber threats, Vietnam is making significant strides in enhancing its cyber resilience. According to a report released by the Military Industry and Telecoms Group (Viettel), personal information theft in cyberspace surged by 50% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year.
Despite this alarming trend, Vietnam’s proactive measures and strategic initiatives demonstrate the nation’s commitment to bolstering its digital security, underscoring a dedicated approach to not only addressing current threats but also preparing for future challenges in the evolving cyber landscape.
The Viettel report highlighted a sharp rise in various cyber threats, including the proliferation of phishing websites, ransomware attacks, and data leaks affecting Vietnamese businesses. However, Vietnam is responding robustly to these challenges. The country’s focus on improving its cybersecurity infrastructure and practices reflects a positive shift toward strengthening its digital environment.
One of the key areas of improvement is the enhancement of data protection protocols. Viettel’s Threat Intelligence data revealed that 46 significant data leaks occurred in the first six months of the year, primarily involving customer and purchase information from the retail sector. In response, Vietnam is intensifying efforts to safeguard sensitive data and mitigate risks associated with data breaches.
To address the growing number of cyber vulnerabilities, Vietnam has been actively updating its cybersecurity measures. The report noted that over 17,000 new vulnerabilities emerged, with a significant portion categorised as high-risk. In response, Vietnamese organisations are implementing robust strategies to manage these vulnerabilities, including tighter access controls, multi-factor authentication, and regular system updates.
Furthermore, the Vietnamese government and private sector are emphasising the importance of secure backup systems. Viettel Cyber Security (VCS) has recommended that organisations ensure their backup data is both physically and logically separated from the main systems. This measure is crucial for recovering data in the event of an attack and maintaining operational continuity.
The rise in ransomware and denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, with approximately 500,000 DDoS incidents reported, underscores the need for comprehensive cybersecurity strategies. Vietnam’s proactive stance includes enhancing threat intelligence capabilities and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to effectively address and counteract these cyber threats.
Vietnam has underscored its commitment to strengthening cyber resilience both domestic and international, urging the UN Security Council to focus on cyberspace-related challenges essential for global peace and security. Highlighting the growing complexity and scale of cyber threats, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang stressed the need for global cooperation and multi-dimensional approaches to combat these risks.
Domestically, Vietnam has demonstrated its commitment through the Law on Cyber Security, enacted in 2018, and recent directives aimed at strengthening network security. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s directive emphasises prioritising cybersecurity by allocating a significant portion of IT project funds to security measures and conducting thorough system reviews.
In addition to technical measures, Vietnam is promoting a culture of cybersecurity awareness and preparedness. The focus is on educating businesses and individuals about the latest cyber threats and best practices for safeguarding digital assets. This educational approach is vital for building a resilient digital economy and ensuring that all sectors are equipped to handle cyber challenges.
Overall, Vietnam’s response to the increasing cyber threat landscape demonstrates a commitment to improving its cyber resilience. By implementing advanced security measures, fostering collaboration, and enhancing public awareness, the nation is taking significant steps to protect its digital infrastructure and ensure a secure online environment.
As Vietnam continues to strengthen its cyber defences, these efforts will play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s digital future and supporting its growing digital economy.
