A "punch" into the den of cybercrime.

Telegram's services in Vietnam have been temporarily suspended, leading many users to switch to other platforms such as Viber and WhatsApp.

Speaking to a reporter from Nguoi Lao Dong newspaper, a representative from MobiFone stated that the network had blocked the Telegram application since May 26th, just a few days after receiving a request from the authorities. Similarly, another network also confirmed that it had implemented a solution to block this messaging platform immediately upon receiving a request from the regulatory agency.

Take strong measures to stop it.

Telegram has many advantages that make it a popular choice for users, especially tech professionals and business people, due to its security and convenience. The platform is also used as a free and convenient way to receive OTP (one-time password) codes. However, it also provides a fertile ground for criminal gangs and groups to exploit, particularly cybercriminals, drug traffickers, and subversive elements.

On May 10th, the Hanoi City Police announced that they had received a report from a young man about being scammed out of over 3.5 billion VND related to "prostitution" on the Telegram platform. Many other cases, such as the dissemination of pornographic images, disguised gambling, and investment solicitations, have also been reported by users recently.

According to reporters, before being blocked, the Telegram platform was very active with thousands of groups exchanging malicious information, attracting a huge number of participants. For example, one group specializing in hacking home security cameras had over 84,200 members, while another group specializing in hacking bank accounts had nearly 10,000 members... A report published in September 2024 by the security firm Kaspersky also clearly indicated that cybercriminals often used Telegram to conduct clandestine transactions.

Many people expressed agreement with the authorities' "tough" decision to minimize the risk of damage to users' property and reputation, especially given the increasing development of deepfake technology using artificial intelligence (AI). Some users decided to return to popular messaging platforms in Vietnam such as Messenger, Zalo, and Viber to maintain personal and work connections.

"Those of us working in the tech field are quite fond of Telegram, but the safety of the community must be prioritized. After Telegram was disconnected, we switched to WhatsApp, Viber, etc.," said Le Tuan, an IT employee (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City).

However, after being blocked from messaging on Telegram, on technology forums or social networks, many user accounts have shared ways for the community to "bypass" the restrictions to continue accessing the application, such as installing a proxy or using a VPN (virtual private network).

Users in Vietnam are currently unable to send messages on the Telegram platform. Photo: LE TINH

It doesn't stop at Telegram.

Experts believe that suspending Telegram's operations in Vietnam is a tough and necessary step to clean up the online environment.

According to Mr. Pham Manh Cuong, founder of Wischain Co., Ltd., while blocking Telegram may affect many users, it will serve as a foundation for addressing crimes hidden within groups on social media platforms in general, including Facebook, Threads, TikTok, Zalo, etc. "There are instances of users trying to install proxies or use VPNs to access blocked applications, but these are insignificant. In any case, blocking Telegram – considered a hotbed of crime – demonstrates the firm stance of authorities against platforms where illegal activities occur," Mr. Cuong observed.

However, Mr. Cuong also warned of the risk of malicious actors shifting to other social media platforms, especially WhatsApp and Viber. Therefore, users need to be careful of scams, impersonation, calls for investment with "unbelievable" profits, or sending malicious links to avoid losing money and suffering harm.

According to the director of a technology company in Ho Chi Minh City, scams can flourish when users are confused about not being able to access and use Telegram. The tricks might involve sending links, urging users to install "Telegram quick access" apps, then leading them to fake websites and engaging in data collection, bank account hacking, etc. "Users should not click on strange links, install apps from unknown sources, or install proxies without understanding the risks," this director advised.

According to the director of the aforementioned technology company, blocking Telegram is like a "punch" to a den of criminals, serving as a warning to other platforms to manage and handle fraudulent activities. This will lead to a healthier social media environment and better protection for users.

A user on social media platform X shared a method to "bypass" Telegram's restrictions. (Screenshot)

According to data from Surfshark and Netblocks, more than 30 countries – including the UK, Germany, Russia, Spain, France, and others – have imposed temporary or permanent bans on Telegram due to concerns about misinformation, copyright infringement, and criminal activities.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/cu-dam-vao-hang-o-toi-pham-mang-196250527215129207.htm