Foreign students seeking F, M, and J visas must now publicize their social media profiles for vetting by US diplomats under new State Department guidance. Diplomats will assess applicants for signs of hostility toward the US and potential threats to national security. A refusal to change privacy settings can be interpreted as concealment, raising suspicion. The policy particularly aims to uncover support for terrorism or antisemitism. Critics argue this screening infringes on free expression and privacy, especially for dissenting voices regarding US foreign policy.
Under new guidance issued by the US State Department, all foreign students applying for F, M, and J visas must make their social media profiles public for vetting by consular officials, who will check for signs of hostility towards the US or threats to national security.
Refusal to change privacy settings on social media will be seen as suspicious, signaling possible concealment of online activity. The State Department has flagged such refusal as a 'red flag'.
The directive stipulates that consular officials search for any signs of hostility toward American citizens, government, and principles, while specifically watching for posts that support terrorism or antisemitic violence.
Concerns have arisen from civil liberties advocates and educational institutions who argue that the policy may lead to ideological screening, encroaching on free expression and privacy rights, particularly affecting students critical of US policies.
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