Vietnam warns of child data leaks and online harms from social media sharing

Vietnamese authorities and experts caution that posting children's award certificates, report cards or other personal information on social media can expose minors to data‑leakage risks. Even a single photo may reveal a child's full name, birthdate, school, class, student ID and facial image, which criminals can use to stage scams such as impersonating teachers or health workers to extract emergency funds from parents.

The Vietnam Computer Emergency Response Team (VNCERT/CC) and the Quảng Ninh provincial police recommend limiting public sharing, blurring identifying details, and restricting posts to private circles. Parents are urged to verify any urgent requests for money directly with schools and to educate children about safe online behaviour.

Beyond data theft, specialists highlight five major online threats to children: cyber‑bullying, sexual harassment, fraud and psychological manipulation, exposure to harmful content (including violence, self‑harm encouragement, and extremist groups), and internet addiction. These risks can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, academic decline, and in severe cases, self‑harm or aggression. Experts call for a “double‑layered” protection system involving families, schools and the wider community, alongside mental‑health support for affected youths.