The National Competition Commission, under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, has imposed significant fines on major social media platforms VNG, owner of Zalo, and TikTok (Singapore). VNG received an 810 million dong penalty, while TikTok was fined 880 million dong. These actions stem from multiple violations of Vietnam's Consumer Protection Law, primarily concerning the collection and use of user information and data.

VNG was cited for six distinct violations. Key among these were the absence of user-friendly mechanisms allowing individuals to choose the scope of information they provide or to explicitly consent to, or refuse, the use of specific personal data. The Zalo platform also failed to offer users the choice to opt out of having their personal information used for advertising and other commercial activities.

Further issues identified by the National Competition Commission included VNG's incorporation of prohibited clauses into its general terms and conditions, without publicly disclosing their effective date. The company also neglected to publicly display its user complaint process at its headquarters or within the Zalo application. Moreover, VNG was found to have violated regulations designed to protect vulnerable user groups. The Ministry of Industry and Trade's enforcement followed a controversial Zalo terms of service update in 12/2025. This update required users to "agree to continue using" the service, sparking private data security concerns. The National Competition Commission subsequently requested the platform to provide an explanation and update its user terms.

Zalo app icon on a phone, 12/2025. *Photo: Luu Quy*

The National Competition Commission required VNG to cease these actions, review, and improve its policies. In response to the decision, a VNG representative confirmed proactive cooperation with authorities to rectify the issues. The company stated it has already amended some policies and is actively addressing other outstanding matters.

Similarly, TikTok (Singapore) faced an 880 million dong fine for comparable infractions. The short-video platform lacked a clear mechanism for users to consent to or refuse the use of their personal information for advertising or the promotion of goods and services. TikTok also provided incomplete, misleading information to users and included violating clauses in its general terms and conditions.

By Phuong Dung - Luu Quy