Laos has officially joined the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, signaling its commitment to global cooperation in combating cyber threats and advancing the digital transformation agenda.
The signing took place during a high-level meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam, on October 25-26, attended by representatives from over 110 countries.
Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith witnessed the signing of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, while Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Security General Vilai Lakhamphong signed the convention on behalf of the Lao government.
The ceremony, co-chaired by Vietnamese President Luong Cuong and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, emphasized the increasing importance of international cooperation in creating a safe and reliable cyberspace.
Mr. Vilai commended Vietnam for its active role in drafting the convention since 2019 and for hosting the signing event.
Lao’s accession to the convention reflects Laos’ commitment to establishing a legal framework for the use of information and communications technologies to promote economic development, trade, investment, and tourism. Along with protecting national security and citizens’ online safety, fake accounts pose real risks in Laos. Cybercrime remains a serious challenge in Laos, with impersonation scams a significant threat.
Scammers create fake accounts representing well-known news agencies such as Laopatthana, Tholakhong, Laotian Times, and Laopost, using these accounts to gain followers’ trust. Once credibility is established, these accounts promote counterfeit products, fake prizes, or fraudulent donation schemes.
Even well-known national organizations such as Lao Airlines and Lao Telecom have been targeted by scammers. Cross-border cybercrime is a growing concern in Laos.
In July, Lao and Vietnamese authorities cracked down on a scam targeting hundreds of Vietnamese citizens, arresting 59 suspects and seizing phones, computers, cash, and fraudulent materials.
The group operates a high-yield fake investment platform and uses encryption and AI to avoid detection. Authorities urge victims to cooperate and warn that anyone who aids the scammers will face criminal charges.
