State Department will not issue visas to individuals linked to spyware abuse

The U.S. State Department announced case-by-case visa denials for individuals involved in the misuse of commercial spyware, extending broader Biden administration efforts that include an executive order restricting federal use of risky spyware and Commerce Department listings of offending vendors. The policy targets those who facilitate or profit from spyware abuse, potentially affecting executives’ eligibility for the U.S. visa waiver program, with decisions kept confidential. Advocates say the move assigns individual accountability and may deter investment, amid ongoing concerns highlighted by incidents like Pegasus targeting of human rights workers and U.S. officials.