Using Telegram in Vietnam: What You Should Know

Understanding Vietnams Growing Need for Telegram

Telegram has become a top choice for quick, secure, and private messaging. Still, access is limited within the country. In this guide, we outline how to use Telegram in Vietnam, the barriers in place, and the safety tips you should follow to keep your conversations private.

Why Telegram Faces Restrictions in Vietnam

New Cybersecurity Laws

Under fresh cybersecurity rules enacted in 2025, Vietnams government began narrowing access to Telegram. Officials voiced concerns that the platform facilitated scams, drug sales, and the spread of prohibited material. In response, they ordered internet service providers to block the app nationwide.

Telegram’s Refusal to Share User Data

The situation deteriorated when Telegram repeatedly declined to turn over user records. Because the app would not bend to state monitoring demands, authorities chose to blacklist it altogether in an effort to tighten control over online communication.

Problems Telegram Users Face in Vietnam

Connection Failures and App Glitches

People in Vietnam now deal with sluggish loading times, messages that cannot be sent, and interrupted voice calls. Even basic photo or video uploads are frequently stalled, creating frustrating gaps in everyday conversations.

Web and Desktop Versions Also Affected

The connectivity troubles extend beyond the mobile app. Telegrams web client and desktop software face the same network problems while users are connected to local Vietnamese ISPs.

How to Use Telegram in Vietnam Safely

VPNs as the Most Reliable Solution

A virtual private network masks your true IP address and assigns you one from another country. By routing traffic through its foreign server, a good VPN lets Telegram open as if local restrictions did not exist.

Proxies: A Built-In Telegram Feature

Telegram also accepts SOCKS5 and MTProto proxies. By entering one of these into your app settings, you direct packets through an alternate path, bypassing regional blocks while leaving other apps unchanged.

How to Set Up a VPN for Telegram

Choosing the Right VPN Service

Seek a provider that balances speed, security, and privacy. Paid subscriptions are usually more reliable than free options, which may be censored, logs excessive data, or sell user information.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Download and install the VPN app.

Open the program and select a server located outside Vietnam.

Tap connect and wait until the status shows connected.

Launch Telegram; the chat platform should appear normally.

How to Set Up a Proxy in Telegram

Finding Proxy Information From a Reliable Source

Search for active, well-managed MTProto or SOCKS5 proxies. Although the services are free, stay alert for phishing links masquerading as configuration guides.

Turning On The Proxy Within Telegram

Open Telegram and tap the three-line menu, then choose Settings.

Head to Data and Storage, tap Connection Type, and select Use Proxy. Enter the server address and port.

Slide the switch to on and keep chatting.

Is It Legal to Use Telegram in Vietnam?

Examining the Legal Landscape

Vietnamese law does not explicitly ban individuals from accessing Telegram via a proxy or VPN. Legislation mostly targets service providers, not users conducting ordinary personal or business chats.

Staying Legally Compliant

For greater legal peace of mind, steer clear of channels debating politics or unlawful issues. Focus conversations on private or professional matters to reduce the risk of your account catching official attention.

Messaging Platforms Still Working Inside Vietnam

Zalo: Vietnams Top All-in-One App

As Vietnams leading homegrown app, Zalo bundles chat, payments, and various mini-services in a single platform. While its deeply ingrained in daily life, many users note it lacks the strong privacy controls Telegram offers.

Signal and WhatsApp

Signal remains reachable in Vietnam and uses robust end-to-end encryption. WhatsApp is also available for private chats, though it has stricter limits on large groups compared to Telegram.

Privacy Tips for Vietnamese Users

Stick to Trusted VPNs and Proxy Tools

Choose only well-regarded paid services, since free or obscure apps may secretly harvest your data. Rely on reviewers and independent audits to guide your selection.

Turn On Two-Step Verification for Telegram

Activating two-step verification in your Telegram settings adds a vital extra layer. It keeps your account safe even if someone swipes your device.

Clear Telegram Cache and Limit Group Join Requests

Regularly empty the app cache to shrink your digital trail. Also, steer clear of too many public channels, especially those discussing sensitive topics, to protect your privacy.

Long-Term Strategies for Sustained Access

The Shift in Government Policies

Be proactive and educate yourself continually about the rapid shifts in Vietnams digital policy so you can stay informed.

Have A Backup Strategy Prepared

If one VPN fails, keep a second app ready or an alternate proxy on standby. The same principle applies to messaging services-set up an extra channel in case the first one is blocked.

Wrap-Up

Telegram access in Vietnam remains viable even during official disruptions. With a reliable VPN, or a proxy, users can maintain private and secure conversations. Practicing cautious browsing while respecting local rules will protect both access and peace of mind.