US Imposes Visa Bans on Cybercriminals
New measures target Chinese criminal organizations involved in fraud.
1US New Visa Policy
The US has decided to stop issuing visas to foreign cybercriminals and their families. This step is presented as a measure against increasing fraud activities by Chinese criminal organizations. In 2024, US citizens were defrauded of over $10 billion.
2Impact of Cybercrimes
Cyber fraud and crimes like sextortion deeply affect families and individuals' futures. Rubio emphasized that these crimes particularly target children and have devastating consequences. The US is using all available tools to combat these crimes.
3Legal Basis
The new policy is based on Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This section prevents visas from being issued to individuals who could negatively impact US foreign policy. Rubio has previously used this section to impose similar restrictions.
4Past Applications
Rubio imposed similar visa bans on foreign officials and private sector workers in 2025. The Biden administration also implemented the 'Khashoggi Ban' in 2021, targeting those harming regime dissidents. Such policies have a long history.
5International Cooperation
The US is increasing international cooperation to combat cybercrimes. Tools like sanctions, prosecutions, asset seizures, and extradition requests are being used. These steps aim to dismantle criminal networks and punish perpetrators.
6Clear Message
The US is sending a clear message to cybercriminals and their enablers: 'We will not let those who target our citizens go unpunished.' This policy aims to create a deterrent effect against criminal organizations.