Vietnam Police: Camera Data Sharing Not Mandatory, Based on Agreement

Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security has clarified that citizens and businesses are not obligated to share their camera data with local police, emphasizing that such cooperation is voluntary and based on mutual agreement.

The clarification comes after Prime Minister Phan Van An approved a plan in March to connect and share data from various security, traffic, and urban management camera systems with the national population database. While many support the initiative, concerns have been raised about the mandatory nature of data sharing, its necessity, the platforms used, and potential penalties for non-compliance.

Ministry officials highlighted the increasing complexity of crime and the need for timely information at the local level. They stated that leveraging data from socialized camera systems provides crucial real-time visual information, enhancing the ability to prevent, detect, and address incidents promptly. This, they argue, is vital for maintaining local security and order.

The ministry also pointed out that significant investments have already been made by organizations and individuals in camera systems for their own security and operational needs. Establishing a data-sharing mechanism with the police aims to optimize the use of these existing resources, preventing waste and increasing the value derived from the data. The proposed sharing will occur through the AI Data Platform, developed and managed by the Ministry of Public Security, which incorporates robust security measures, access controls, and usage monitoring to protect data privacy and integrity.

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The connection and sharing of camera data from organizations and individuals with commune-level police is not a mandatory obligation but is carried out under an agreement mechanism.