Vietnam considers social media restrictions for minors

Vietnam is considering new regulations to protect children under 16 from the risks of social media. Proposed drafts suggest that while this age group may still access online content, platforms must implement technical solutions to prevent them from posting, commenting, or sharing content.

Experts, including Dr. Gordon Ingram from RMIT University Vietnam, note that limiting interaction could protect vulnerable youth from financial scams, sexual predators, and radicalization, while also reducing social media addiction by minimizing dopamine hits from likes and comments. However, there are concerns that such restrictions might lead to social isolation or feelings of frustration among teenagers.

These discussions coincide with rising concerns regarding ‘online gangsters’—influencers who gain notoriety through controversial statements, displays of wealth, and aggressive behavior. Such figures often leverage their large followings to engage in commercial activities, such as livestream selling, which raises questions regarding product quality, consumer protection, and the normalization of toxic behavior among young viewers.