Enterprises fined for spam texts

HÀ NỘI — The Ministry of Information and Communications has fined four telecommunication enterprises for sending and spreading spam text messages to advertise their services.

Three out of four enterprises were fined VNĐ40 million (US$1,760) each, including VIET TETRA Joint Stock Company (network code 6756), Giải Trí Đất Việt Company Ltd. (7775) and Việt Nam H2T Communication Joint Stock Company (6671, 6771).

The VMG Media Joint Stock Company (network codes 8979, 8679 and 949) was fined VNĐ120 million ($5,300) for spreading spam messages and providing predictions on lottery results.

The ministry has adopted measures to intensify inspections and is confiscating pre-activated SIM cards since last year to reduce spam text messages and prevent telecommunication crimes.

Five major network operators – Viettel, VinaPhone, Mobifone, Vietnamobile and Gtel – last month signed a commitment of collaboration to combat spam text messages.

Nearly 20 million pre-activated SIM cards were confiscated by the end of February 2017. — VNS