Hanoi strengthens privacy protections against online fraud
The city is tightening regulations and promoting awareness to improve cybersecurity and protect its citizens from digital threats.
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi’s Department of Science and Technology has ordered postal and telecommunications firms to implement stronger measures to protect user data amid rising online scams.
The scams take advantage of leaked personal information, including names, phone numbers, and addresses. Photo: Information Security Authority
Nguyen Tien Sy, Deputy Director of the department, emphasized the growing concern about scammers posing as postal workers to trick customers. Many victims have reported receiving calls claiming they have undelivered packages and asking them to send money. These scams take advantage of personal information, such as names, phone numbers, and addresses, that has been compromised.
"In the digital age, the security of personal data is more critical than ever,” he said.
In an official document sent to companies on March 24, the department banned the disclosure of user information, including names, phone numbers, and addresses of both senders and recipients of postal services.
Companies that use digital postal services must comply with the Law on Cybersecurity and the government regulations on cybersecurity, ensuring data security and employee awareness of privacy policies.
Postal operators are required to take solutions such as call identification for delivery personnel and data encryption for shipments. They are also encouraged to instruct customers how to verify official communication channels.
Telecom operators must tighten security by centralizing subscriber databases, securing user information, and ensuring compliance with data protection laws.
The department urges Hanoi residents to refrain from sharing personal information on social media and to be wary of unsolicited calls, messages, or emails requesting personal information or payments.
The National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) reported that 30 fraudulent websites were detected in January, imitating major e-commerce and delivery platforms, including Vietnam Post, Viettel Post, and Shopee. In addition, 16 fake websites were found mimicking major brands such as Facebook, Telegram, TikTok, Vingroup, Viettel, and VNG, while 11 others pretended to be banks and financial institutions.
