Beijing — China is moving to tighten measures against cybercrime with a draft bill that would bar convicted citizens from leaving the country for up to three years, even after completing their sentences. The announcement, made Saturday by Beijing’s Public Security Ministry, is part of a broader effort to combat cross-border online fraud, particularly in cooperation with Southeast Asian nations.
The draft Cybercrime Prevention and Control Law aims to impose exit bans on Chinese nationals found guilty of online crimes that span borders. The bill, now open for public comment until next month, is intended to complement the Anti-Telecom and Online Fraud Law enacted in 2022.
China already uses exit bans as a tool to prevent individuals from leaving the mainland, often in cases of legal disputes or suspected offenses deemed insufficient for immediate arrest. Typically, affected individuals are not notified of the restriction until they attempt to cross a border.
Read Also: Zero To Revenue: Build A Business In 90 Days—Part 4
Under the proposed law, the restrictions would apply not only to those convicted of cybercrimes but also to anyone who supports or facilitates criminal activity online. This includes companies offering payment platforms, servers, accounts, advertisements, or recruiting services that assist cybercriminals.
The draft also targets activities such as spreading false information, fake news, or content that violates public order or accepted social norms for personal gain, including generating traffic or advertising revenue. Officials say these measures aim to reduce both domestic and international online fraud while strengthening China’s legal and technical framework for cybercrime enforcement.
Read Also: UK Ex-Ambassador Mandelson Quits Labor Over Epstein Links
Experts note that the bill, if enacted, could significantly expand the reach of Chinese authorities, extending penalties beyond imprisonment to include post-sentence restrictions on movement. While designed to protect the public from online crime, the law raises questions about civil liberties and international travel for those previously convicted of non-violent cyber offenses.
China’s public security ministry has emphasized that the draft is part of an ongoing consultation process. Authorities encourage public feedback on the proposed legislation, which reflects Beijing’s determination to enhance cybersecurity controls amid increasing cross-border digital crime.