Grab Driver 'Mass App Shutdown' Hoax, Authorities Warn Public

Hanoi police have confirmed that reports circulating online claiming Grab drivers are collectively shutting down their apps or going on strike are false. These posts, primarily on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, were found to be aimed at increasing engagement. The Hanoi Police Department for Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention and Control identified numerous articles, images, and videos recently shared on social media using phrases such as "Grab drivers collectively shut down apps," "strike," "Grab paralyzed," and "all drivers stop operating." These posts often included unverified comments and analyses regarding driver income and commission rates, without citing specific sources. Inquiries with Grab confirmed that the company had issued no such "app shutdown" notices, and its service operations have remained normal and stable. One YouTube channel operator in Hanoi admitted to authorities that they posted such content to attract engagement and has since been fined. Hanoi police urge the public to be vigilant when encountering information calling for Grab app shutdowns. They advise social media users not to be alarmed by unverified information and to refrain from sharing, commenting on, or reposting content with unclear origins, dates, or accuracy. Users are also cautioned to verify the time, location, and source of images, videos, or screenshots found online, as old information may be reused or content edited to cause misunderstanding. This incident highlights the challenge of misinformation in Vietnam, where rapid social media dissemination can quickly spread unverified claims, even amidst a controlled information environment. Such hoaxes can sow social unrest, particularly as the platform economy, including services like Grab, grows and discussions around worker rights and conditions intensify.