The Hanoi Convention: A global milestone in the fight against cybercrime

This October, Hanoi will host the signing ceremony of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, also known as the “Hanoi Convention.” As the first comprehensive international treaty addressing cybercrime, the Convention marks a turning point in global cooperation to tackle non-traditional security threats.

The Convention comprises 71 articles across nine chapters, criminalising acts such as illegal access to information and communications technology (ICT) systems, online fraud, child exploitation, and laundering of proceeds of crime. It also establishes mechanisms for international cooperation, extradition, data sharing, and human rights protection in cyberspace.

Strengthened cooperation to tackle new threats

Dr Jeff Nijsse, a senior lecturer in Software Engineering at RMIT University Vietnam, said the Hanoi Convention reflects Vietnam’s rising role in the global fight against cybercrime. 

“Vietnam’s selection as the host of the Convention’s signing ceremony shows it is a nation of strategic importance,” Dr Nijsse said.

“The country’s ascent to Tier 1 in the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) rankings with a near-perfect score also speaks of a rapid maturation of its national cybersecurity framework.” 

The RMIT academic appreciates the forward-looking nature of the Convention, highlighting the inclusion of ‘virtual assets’ in the definition of property.

“This is a welcome modern provision that directly addresses the role that cryptocurrencies can play in cybercrime, from ransomware payments to money laundering. By codifying this, the convention avoids the legal ambiguity that older treaties might have and equips law enforcement to trace and seize digital currencies derived from criminal activity,” he said. 

Dr Nijsse also underlines the Convention’s requirement for each country to designate a 24/7 contact point for urgent cybercrime investigations, and to make offences extraditable, ensuring criminals cannot evade justice by crossing borders.

Protecting vulnerable groups and building capacity to combat cybercrime 

Dr Sreenivas Tirumala, a senior lecturer in Cybersecurity at RMIT Vietnam, notes that global cybercrime damage costs are projected to reach US$10.5 trillion in 2025 (according to Cybersecurity Ventures). In light of that, the Convention will contribute to securing the global digital economy by implementing global standards to promote safe online usage and improve trust.

“The Convention promotes shared responsibility, capacity building, and international collaboration to ensure a safer digital future. Its focus on supporting developing countries is expected to bring technology assistance, training, and capacity-building opportunities to Vietnamese youth, helping to close the cybersecurity skills gap,” Dr Tirumala said.

He also stresses the importance of the Convention in protecting vulnerable groups, especially the youth, from exploitation on social media.

Vietnam has been fighting against cybercrime, and the number of incidents has been increasing due to fast digitalisation. There is a clear indication of exploitation, particularly of vulnerable youth and children, through social media.

“The Convention provides a framework that Vietnamese policymakers and legislators can leverage to strengthen domestic laws and enforcement mechanisms aimed at protecting vulnerable populations online,” Dr Tirumala said.

As the Convention moves toward ratification and entry into force after the signing, Vietnam will have the opportunity to translate its diplomatic leadership into practical impact. By aligning domestic legislation with international standards and boosting collaboration across sectors, the country can help shape a safer digital environment for its citizens and the region. 

Story: Ngoc Hoang

Masthead image: Naeblys – stock.adobe.com