Vietnam responds to several nations' emergency stockpiling recommendations

At the foreign ministry’s regular press briefing, Hang was asked about cyberattacks targeting supermarket refrigeration systems across Europe and recommendations by several countries urging their citizens to stockpile essential supplies in preparation for potential emergencies.

Vietnam strongly condemns cyberattacks

International media have recently reported cyberattacks targeting supermarket fridge systems in several European countries.

Against this backdrop, some nations have encouraged their citizens to prepare essential supplies to cope with potential emergencies, including geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and cybersecurity threats.

Reporters asked how Vietnam, as the host country of the signing ceremony for the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, also known as the Hanoi Convention, assessed these risks and whether it planned to issue similar recommendations to the public.

They also sought clarification on Vietnam’s international cooperation efforts to prevent and proactively respond to unexpected incidents.

Responding to the questions, Hang said Vietnam was closely monitoring relevant developments.

The cyberattacks targeting supermarket refrigeration systems in Europe demonstrate that cybersecurity threats are expanding beyond data and information systems, potentially disrupting production and business operations, supply chains, and people's daily lives, she said.

"Vietnam strongly condemns cyberattacks and acts that threaten cybersecurity in any form," the spokesperson stressed.

Hang emphasized that ensuring cybersecurity for critical infrastructure and essential systems, including energy, telecommunications, finance, healthcare, transportation, and goods supply networks, was particularly important.

Such efforts must be undertaken proactively and well in advance, she said.

Emergency preparedness measures must not cause public panic

On recommendations for emergency stockpiling, Hang said relevant Vietnamese agencies would work together to evaluate potential risks and study suitable measures based on actual conditions in the country.

“These will include raising public awareness and providing guidance to help people proactively prevent and respond to incidents, while avoiding the emergence of public anxiety," she said.

In terms of international cooperation, Hang affirmed that Vietnam would continue to promote information exchanges, share early warnings, coordinate investigations and the handling of cross-border cybercrime, and strengthen incident response capabilities.

As the host country of the signing ceremony for the Hanoi Convention, Vietnam reaffirmed its commitment to playing an active and responsible role in working with the international community to combat cybercrime.

"Vietnam's position is to make a decisive shift from passive response to proactive prevention, forecasting and preparedness, ensuring that cybersecurity is closely linked to protecting essential economic activities and people's daily lives," Hang emphasized.