Foreign students applying to study in the United States will now be required to make their social media profiles public so that American diplomats can vet their online activity for signs of “hostility” towards the US or threats to national security.
Under new guidance issued by the US State Department this week, consular officials will carry out social media checks on all applicants for F, M, and J category visas — covering academic studies, vocational training, and cultural exchange programmes.
Applicants who refuse to change their privacy settings may be treated with suspicion, with the State Department warning that refusal to cooperate will be considered a “red flag” for concealment of online activity.
According to the guidance, consular officers are instructed to look for “any indications of hostility toward the citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles of the United States.” A confidential diplomatic cable, obtained separately by Politico, also advises diplomats to flag any posts suggesting support for terrorist organisations, antisemitic violence, or any other perceived threats to US national security.
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