US Announces New Global Visa Restrictions Targeting Cybercriminals and Their Associates

The United States has announced a new global visa restriction policy targeting individuals involved in cybercrime and cyber-enabled criminal activities, including online investment scams and sextortion.

Announcing the policy, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the visa restrictions could also apply to the immediate family members of individuals found to be involved in or facilitating such crimes.

"The United States will take action against those who prey on our citizens," Rubio said, according to media reports.

The new policy has been introduced under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act and forms part of the Trump administration's broader effort to combat international cybercrime networks.

In a statement, Rubio said the policy is intended to target individuals who engage in or facilitate cybercrime and cyber-enabled offenses, including online financial fraud and sextortion. He added that immediate family members of those involved in such illegal activities may also be subject to visa restrictions.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the new measure is designed not only to enforce U.S. immigration laws but also to serve as a deterrent against cybercrime by denying entry to those responsible for or associated with such activities.

The department noted that the United States has imposed similar visa restrictions this year on individuals accused of supporting political violence, assisting U.S. adversaries, maintaining links with drug cartels or organized criminal groups, or undermining regional stability. In such cases, visa restrictions may also extend to the immediate family members of the individuals concerned.