The US has announced a new global visa restriction policy targeting individuals involved in cybercrime, online scams, and sextortion. The move is part of the government’s broader effort to protect American citizens from digital fraud and other cyber-enabled crimes.
The announcement was made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He said the new policy supports President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14390, which focuses on combating cybercrime, fraud, and online schemes targeting people in the United States.
According to the US Department of State, cybercriminals stole at least $10 billion from Americans during 2024. Officials said many of these scams were carried out by Chinese transnational criminal organizations that are also involved in money laundering, corruption, and human trafficking.
The department also said that overseas criminal groups have targeted American children through online sextortion schemes. These crimes involve threatening victims to obtain money or other benefits using explicit images or online communications.
The new visa restriction policy has been introduced under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The law allows the government to deny visas to people involved in activities considered harmful to US interests.
Under the policy, individuals who commit or help facilitate cybercrime and cyber-enabled offenses may be denied entry into the United States. The restrictions also apply to people involved in cyberscams, online fraud, and sextortion.
The US government has confirmed that immediate family members of individuals involved in these crimes may also face visa restrictions. Officials believe this step will strengthen efforts to disrupt international criminal networks.
The Trump administration said the visa policy is only one part of a wider strategy to combat cybercrime. Authorities also plan to impose sanctions, pursue criminal prosecutions, seize illegal assets, and request the extradition of suspects where possible.
Officials said the United States will continue working closely with international law enforcement agencies to identify and dismantle criminal organizations operating across borders. The government believes stronger global cooperation is necessary to fight cyber-enabled crimes.
Marco Rubio said the administration remains committed to protecting American citizens from online fraud and digital exploitation. He added that those responsible for targeting people through cybercrime should expect stronger enforcement measures.
The latest policy reflects the growing concern over cybercrime around the world. Governments are increasing cooperation to address scams that involve financial fraud, identity theft, and online exploitation.
The US Department of State said the visa restrictions are intended to prevent cybercriminals from benefiting from international travel while strengthening action against organized criminal groups. Officials said these measures will support broader efforts to reduce cybercrime and improve public safety.
In other related news also read Pakistan Seeks $10B US Financial Lifeline
The new policy takes effect as part of the United States’ ongoing campaign against global cybercrime. The government has said it will continue using legal, financial, and diplomatic tools to hold offenders accountable and protect American citizens from online threats.
