Vietnam Imposes Fines Up To 50 Million VND for Spreading False Information on Social Media

In a significant move to curb the proliferation of misinformation and harmful content online, the Vietnamese government has enacted a new decree, No. 174/2026/NĐ-CP, which came into effect on July 1. This legislation introduces stringent penalties for individuals and organizations caught spreading false news, engaging in defamation, or posting content that undermines national unity and social morality.

The decree outlines a tiered penalty system designed to deter various forms of online misconduct. Sharing fabricated information, inciting social vices, or posting graphic and disturbing content can result in fines between 20 and 30 million VND. More severe offenses, such as distorting historical narratives, denying revolutionary achievements, or disclosing state secrets, carry heavier penalties, potentially reaching up to 50 million VND, provided the act does not warrant criminal prosecution.

This regulatory action reflects Vietnam's commitment to maintaining a stable and secure information environment. The government views the unchecked spread of misinformation as a threat to social order, economic development, and the legitimate interests of its citizens and institutions. The decree specifically targets content that could cause public panic, disrupt economic activities, or impede the work of state agencies.

Furthermore, the decree includes provisions for remedial actions, such as the mandatory removal of offending content and the temporary suspension of social media accounts or community pages that repeatedly violate the regulations. This comprehensive approach aims not only to punish offenders but also to actively cleanse the online space of harmful material, ensuring a more reliable and trustworthy digital landscape for all Vietnamese citizens.