According to the National Strategy for the Development of the Digital Economy and Digital Society until 2025, with a Vision to 2030, Vietnam places clear emphasis on managing risks in digital transformation while protecting citizens and businesses from threats to their legitimate interests. Special attention is given to protecting children and vulnerable groups online.

Vietnam has already implemented a nationwide program since 2021 aimed at safeguarding children’s personal data and privacy. The program also aims to prevent and address all forms of exploitation and abuse targeting minors on digital platforms, while equipping children with age-appropriate digital skills to protect themselves and interact safely in the online world.

As of December 10, Australia has officially banned users under the age of 16 from creating social media accounts on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. Commenting on this policy, Ngo Tuan Anh, Director of cybersecurity firm SCS and Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Club for Child Protection in Cyberspace, said the ban reflects the serious and growing concern about the negative mental health and developmental impacts social media can have on children.

Governments worldwide are shifting from voluntary safety recommendations to legal frameworks and stricter enforcement to mitigate these risks.

“Australia’s Online Safety Act, particularly its child protection provisions, not only holds platforms accountable for implementation but also raises awareness among users about their responsibility in supervising children’s online activity,” Ngo emphasized.

Assessing Vietnam’s own context, he noted that the country has one of the highest rates of internet and social media usage among children. Policies such as Project 830 (on healthy and creative child interaction online) and Decree 147 (on internet service and information management) have laid out specific responsibilities for stakeholders, including platform providers. These include technical tools for controlling screen time, content filters, and data privacy enforcement. However, execution still faces significant gaps.

“In Vietnam, a rigid enforcement model wouldn’t work,” Ngo stated. “Instead of cutting children off from social media, we need smart controls that minimize risk while ensuring safety and utility. Besides regulatory oversight, equipping children with safe digital skills is vital. Laws must be enforced strictly, and effective tools must be deployed.”

He stressed the need for a comprehensive, balanced, and open approach to online child protection, offering a list of priority solutions:

There should be strong legal frameworks with clear penalties for violations, including age limits for account creation and restrictions on access time. These measures can already be supported by current technologies.

Platform providers must be held more accountable for ensuring privacy and data protection, with basic tools to verify age, monitor screen time, and secure online environments.

Parental supervision is essential. Parents and guardians are the people who understand children best and should guide and accompany them in the digital world.

Equally important is providing children with digital literacy to help them recognize and avoid online threats and protect themselves.

“In the end, the most important responsibility lies with each user. That’s why children need the support of their families, schools, and a strong commitment from platforms and regulators,” said Ngo Tuan Anh.

PV