Facebook rebuts Vietnam claims over alleged illegal content

In this March 29, 2018 file photo, the logo for Facebook appears on screens in New York’s Times Square. Facebook is defending itself against allegations that it allows illegal content in violation of Vietnam’s cybersecurity law. AP

HANOI, Vietnam — Facebook is defending itself against allegations that it allows illegal content in violation of Vietnam’s cybersecurity law.

The social media giant said Wednesday that it had a clear process for reporting and handling content that violates laws. The company said it had restricted illegal content and was in discussions with the government.

The comments were in response to state media reports that the Ministry of Information and Communication has complained Facebook was allowing users to upload slanderous content and anti-government comments, among other alleged violations of a cybersecurity law that took effect Jan. 1.

The law requires service providers such as Google and Facebook operating in Communist-ruled Vietnam to store user data and open offices in the country and remove offending contents within 24 hours if requested by the authorities. /ee