Collection of electronic evidence in criminal proceedings in Vietnam: Current status and recommendations for legal improvement

Amid digital transformation and the growth of high-tech crime, electronic evidence has become increasingly important in criminal investigation, prosecution, and adjudication. This study examines the theoretical foundations of collecting electronic evidence, evaluates Vietnam’s current legal provisions, and identifies practical difficulties. Major challenges include incomplete procedural rules, limited technical infrastructure, insufficient digital-forensics expertise among procedural officers, risks to data integrity and personal privacy, and difficulties in obtaining data stored by cross-border service providers. The study proposes improving procedures for collecting, copying, sealing, preserving, and verifying electronic data; strengthening chain-of-custody requirements; developing specialized technical systems; enhancing professional training; and expanding international cooperation. These recommendations aim to improve the effectiveness of criminal proceedings and support judicial reform in the digital era.