HANOI – Cybersecurity in Vietnam is facing both significant progress and growing challenges, according to Bùi Hoàng Phương, Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, speaking at today’s *Vietnam Cyber Security Day 2024* conference and exhibition held in Hà Nội. As cyberattacks grow increasingly sophisticated, fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), the country continues to strengthen its information security systems to keep up with these evolving threats.
Phương emphasized the progress Vietnam has made in the cybersecurity sector, noting a 55% decrease in the number of cyberattacks in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period last year. This significant reduction is seen as a positive development, yet the Deputy Minister warned that new challenges are emerging. One of the most alarming threats, according to Phương, is the growing use of AI in cyberattacks, which could exponentially increase the risks to national security.
“Cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated and complex, especially with the assistance of artificial intelligence,” Phương said, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance. “Therefore, all agencies and organisations must continuously enhance their information security capabilities, proactively implement security measures, and maintain these efforts consistently.”
Vietnam has also achieved a notable milestone in global cybersecurity rankings. The country now ranks 17th out of 194 nations, marking a significant leap forward in the global cybersecurity landscape. Additionally, the national cybersecurity monitoring system has processed over 10.5 billion messages, successfully blocked more than 14,552 malicious websites, and protected over 11.32 million users in the past year. Despite these achievements, Phương emphasized that Vietnam’s cybersecurity workforce remains relatively small, with only about 38,000 professionals, most of whom are employed in the private sector.
The Deputy Minister also raised concerns over the proliferation of online fraud, noting that hundreds of thousands of cases have been reported. This increase in cybercrime further underscores the critical importance of bolstering cybersecurity measures across the country. Another significant issue that Phương pointed out is the reliance on foreign-made surveillance cameras, which account for over 90% of all such devices in Vietnam. This raises serious concerns about national data security and the potential risks posed by foreign entities gaining access to sensitive information.
In the broader context of digital transformation, 2024 is poised to be a pivotal year for Vietnam. The government is pushing for the widespread adoption of national digital platforms, with an emphasis on improving data governance and security. As these platforms become more integrated into daily life, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more urgent.
The conference highlighted that information security must remain a top priority, with critical databases and national digital platforms needing protection in accordance with both the Law on Information Security and the Law on Cybersecurity. Phương stressed that Vietnam’s success in securing its digital infrastructure will depend on the continued collaboration between government agencies, private sector entities, and cybersecurity professionals.
With AI-driven threats on the rise, the path forward for Vietnam’s cybersecurity will require constant innovation, strategic planning, and collective effort. As the nation continues to develop its digital infrastructure, safeguarding its cyberspace will be crucial in ensuring its national security and economic stability in the digital age. (zai)