Vietnam Fines Social Media Users for False Information

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The Vietnamese government is set to impose fines of up to VND50 million (US$1,900) on social media users who disseminate false or fabricated information. This measure, outlined in a new decree, aims to increase regulation over digital platforms by defining administrative violations, penalties, and responsible authorities across various communication and IT sectors in Vietnam.

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The sanctions target both Vietnamese and foreign organizations and individuals who breach the decree's regulations. Those affected include telecom and IT enterprises, internet service providers, public broadcasters, social organizations, and foreign entities engaged in related activities within Vietnam. Violations include sharing defamatory or false content, promoting social vices, and disseminating obscene materials that have not reached the level of criminal prosecution.

Fines ranging from VND20-30 million are designated for exploiting platforms for sharing prohibited content, such as graphic violence or unauthorized copyrighted materials, and for misrepresenting national sovereignty. The decree also addresses failures by press agencies to inform authorities when establishing accounts and pages on social platforms, as well as neglecting to remove harmful content.

For more severe breaches, such as distorting history or leaking state secrets, penalties are heightened to between VND30-50 million. These fines apply when actions do not trigger criminal prosecution but still violate national unity or compromise personal and state confidentiality. The decree's enforcement is scheduled for July 1, 2026.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 22 May 2026