Vietnam is facing a surge in phishing attacks and ransomware threats, posing a significant challenge to the country’s cyberspace security. Tran Minh Quang, director of Viettel Cyber Security, highlights the growing number of phishing attacks witnessed in recent years. These attacks often occur through emails and messages, where fake institutions, banks, or online services trick victims into sharing personal information, bank account details, or passwords. Phishing techniques have become more sophisticated, making it increasingly challenging for users to identify and protect themselves against such scams.
Ransomware attacks have also emerged as a major concern, causing financial damage to companies, organizations, and individual users. Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files on computers and demands a ransom for decryption. This type of attack not only affects victims financially but also causes inconvenience and disruption to their operations. Cybercriminals are also increasingly utilizing other methods such as phone scans, text messages, and fake websites to carry out fraudulent activities.
To address these cybersecurity threats, experts emphasize the need for heightened awareness and stronger protective measures. Khong Huy Hung, deputy chair of the Vietnam Information Security Association (VNISA), warns that online scams not only harm individuals and businesses but also hinder Vietnam’s progress towards digital transformation, a digital economy, and a digital society. Cybercriminals are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to optimize their fraudulent schemes, making it crucial for individuals and institutions to stay vigilant and adopt robust cybersecurity measures.
To combat online scams, the Authority of Information Security (AIS) has taken preventive measures, identifying and blocking numerous websites and blogs violating laws, including 559 online scam sites. This action has protected approximately 2.7 million people from scams. Additionally, the AIS has established a trust ecosystem, attaching trust labels to 3,400 institutions and over 3,800 websites. These trust labels assist users in identifying trustworthy entities and websites, enhancing their cybersecurity.
The Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has launched a month-long campaign to raise awareness about online scams and educate people on how to identify, prevent, and fight against these threats. By emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity, the ministry aims to protect individuals and organizations from online risks, ultimately contributing to a safer digital environment.
As Vietnam continues its digital transformation and strives towards a digital society, it is crucial for individuals, businesses, and the government to cooperate in addressing the growing menace of phishing attacks and ransomware threats. By staying informed, adopting strong security measures, and implementing preventive actions, Vietnam can mitigate the impact of cyber threats and ensure a secure digital future for all its citizens.
