On September 28, 2025, Zalo and Facebook—two of Vietnam’s most widely used social networking platforms—rolled out a host of updates and reminders focused on user safety, privacy, and convenience. As the digital world continues to expand, so too do the risks associated with online accounts. Recent changes by these tech giants are designed to help users stay one step ahead of hackers, streamline access to government services, and give individuals more control over their personal data.
For millions of users, Facebook and Zalo are not just messaging apps; they are gateways to daily communication, business, and even administrative tasks. But with that convenience comes vulnerability. As reported by MTG, both platforms now offer a crucial security feature: instant notifications when someone tries to log into your account from a new device, browser, or location. This alert system is more than just a pop-up—it provides specific details about the device used, the time, and the location of the login attempt. Such transparency enables users to spot suspicious activity quickly and take immediate action, like changing their password or locking their account.
Setting up these notifications is refreshingly straightforward. On Facebook, users simply open the app, tap the menu icon, head to Settings & Privacy, then Settings, and navigate to Password and Security. From there, they select Login Alerts and choose whether to receive notifications through the app, email, or both. Zalo’s process is just as simple: users access the Personal section, select Settings, then Account and Security, and enable two-factor authentication. Once activated, Zalo will send a message or notification every time there’s an attempt to log in from an unrecognized device.
Why all the fuss about these alerts? According to MTG, Zalo and Facebook are particularly attractive targets for hackers. A single careless click on a fake link, a leaked password, or a malware-infected phone can hand over your account to cybercriminals. The login alert feature acts as an early warning system, giving users a chance to act before any real damage is done. It’s a digital smoke alarm, if you will—one that could save you from a world of trouble.
But security isn’t the only thing on Zalo’s mind. On the same day, Cafef reported that Zalo unveiled a suite of major updates aimed squarely at making life easier and more secure for its users. Chief among these is the launch of the AI Digital Citizen Assistant—a smart, always-on helper designed to demystify Vietnam’s often complex administrative procedures. Whether you need to apply for a passport, register a child’s birth, or navigate another bureaucratic maze, this AI assistant can provide detailed, reliable answers in seconds. The feature draws on trusted legal and administrative databases, making it a “legal handbook” right in your pocket, as Cafef put it.
Using the AI assistant couldn’t be easier. Users start by tapping “Explore” on Zalo’s main menu, then select “Digital Citizen Assistant.” From there, they can type in any question about legal or administrative procedures or choose from suggested topics. Within moments, the assistant delivers a precise response, often with links to original sources for further verification. This innovation promises to save users a significant amount of time and frustration, eliminating the need to scour multiple websites or wait in line at government offices.
But Zalo didn’t stop there. Recognizing that privacy is as important as security, the company also introduced enhanced customization tools that put users firmly in control of their digital footprint. With just a few taps, individuals can decide who sees their birth date, online status, messages, call logs, diary entries, friend requests, and more. The process is simple: open the Zalo app, go to the Personal section, tap Privacy, and start tweaking settings to suit your personal comfort level. As Cafef highlighted, these granular options mean you can tailor your online presence, choosing exactly what to share and with whom.
The timing of these updates is no accident. With online scams and privacy breaches making headlines globally, platforms like Zalo and Facebook are under increasing pressure to protect their users. The companies’ latest moves reflect a growing recognition that digital safety is not just a technical issue, but a fundamental part of the user experience. By offering both proactive security alerts and customizable privacy controls, they aim to build trust and keep pace with evolving threats.
Of course, these changes also come with a learning curve. For some users, especially those less familiar with technology, enabling new features or navigating privacy menus can seem daunting. Both companies have sought to address this by providing step-by-step instructions within their apps. And the hope is that, as more people become aware of these options, the community as a whole will be better protected.
It’s worth noting that these efforts are part of a broader trend across the tech industry. As digital assistants powered by artificial intelligence become more sophisticated, they’re increasingly being deployed to help users with everything from banking to healthcare to government paperwork. Zalo’s Digital Citizen Assistant is just the latest example of how AI can simplify daily life, offering instant access to information that once required hours of research or a trip to a government office.
Meanwhile, the emphasis on privacy customization reflects a shift in user expectations. Gone are the days when people were content to let platforms decide what information was public or private. Today’s users demand control—and they’re getting it, one update at a time.
For those who haven’t yet activated these new features, now is the time. The risks of ignoring digital security are real, but the solutions are increasingly within reach. With a few minutes of setup, users can enjoy greater peace of mind, knowing they’ll be the first to know if something’s amiss. And with tools like the Digital Citizen Assistant, navigating bureaucracy has never been easier.
In a world where our lives are ever more entwined with digital platforms, these updates from Zalo and Facebook serve as a timely reminder: staying safe and informed online isn’t just possible—it’s essential.
