Foreign-invested enterprises (FDI) in Vietnam are facing increasing pressure to strengthen data protection measures as cyber threats intensify and regulatory requirements become more stringent. The issue was a key focus at a recent forum on personal data protection held in Hà Nội, where industry leaders, legal experts, and technology professionals gathered to discuss the growing risks and compliance burdens confronting international businesses operating in the country.
According to insights shared during the event, cyberattacks are no longer isolated incidents but a widespread challenge across industries. Data from the National Cyber Security Association revealed that more than half of businesses in Vietnam experienced cyberattacks in 2025, highlighting the scale and persistence of the threat landscape. Experts emphasized that even organizations with advanced security systems are not immune, as attackers continue to evolve their techniques.
For FDI enterprises, the risks are particularly high due to the nature of the data they handle. These organizations often manage sensitive assets such as research and development data, proprietary designs, customer information, and supply chain details. The complexity increases further with cross-border data transfers between local operations and global headquarters, creating additional exposure points where data breaches can occur.
At the same time, Vietnam’s regulatory environment is rapidly evolving. Policies such as Decree 13/2023/NĐ-CP and the Personal Data Protection Law are introducing stricter requirements, compelling businesses not only to secure data but also to demonstrate compliance in how data is collected, processed, and stored. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to VNĐ3 billion or a percentage of annual revenue, adding financial pressure alongside security concerns.
Industry experts describe this situation as a “dual pressure” for FDI firms—balancing robust cybersecurity defenses while ensuring adherence to complex legal frameworks. Business leaders must also align with global compliance standards set by parent companies while adapting to local regulations, making data governance more challenging than ever.
Another critical concern raised at the forum is the lack of visibility and control over data at the “output stage,” when information leaves internal systems. Traditional cybersecurity tools such as firewalls and antivirus solutions remain essential but are increasingly insufficient against modern threats. With millions of new malware variants emerging daily, experts argue that organizations must go beyond perimeter defense and adopt strategies focused on monitoring internal data movement and preventing data leakage.
To address these challenges, companies are exploring advanced solutions that provide real-time monitoring and control over data flows. New technologies introduced at the forum aim to detect unusual activity, prevent unauthorized data transfers, and strengthen compliance without requiring major infrastructure changes. These tools reflect a broader shift in cybersecurity strategy—from simply preventing attacks to maintaining comprehensive control over data throughout its lifecycle.
As cyber risks grow more sophisticated and regulations tighten, experts stress that businesses must rethink their approach to security. A combination of advanced technology, strong governance, and proactive compliance will be essential for FDI enterprises to protect sensitive information and ensure sustainable operations in an increasingly complex digital environment.
Recommended Cyber Technology News :
- Booking.com Warns of Cyberattack and Data Breach Risk
- OpenText Expands AI Data Solutions to AWS European Sovereign Cloud
- Check Point Introduces Perth Data Residency Instance for Workplace Security SASE
To participate in our interviews, please write to our CyberTech Media Room at info@intentamplify.com
