Internet stores that provide service to online gamers may come under more scrutiny, according to a recent draft decree.
Both game service providers and gamers could be fined for violations
The Ministry of Information and Communication has drafted a decree on administrative punishments over violations of regulations on post, telecommunication, information technology and radiotelegraphy.
The draft law stipulates that Internet stores providing online gaming services that are located within 200 metres of a primary or secondary school would be fined from VND10-VND20 million (USD479.1-USD958.3) each.
The same fine would be placed on unlicensed shops, and those which do not abide by the new rule that stipulates that they only be open between the hours of 8am to 10pm.
Under the draft decree internet service providers could be held accountable.
Fines for internet service providers that fail to cut off access to violating shops would be from VND30-50 million (USD1,437-USD2,395).
Gamers themselves could be fined for playing at unlicensed shops or those that violate the regulation on hours. However the highest fines, anywhere from VND160 million-200 million, (USD7,666-USD9,583), would be reserved for those who provide online games via G1 with no license.
The draft decree is expected to be submitted to the government for consideration in mid-March and possibly take effect in early July.
