WASHINGTON: U.S. Officials have implemented updated entry rules mandating that all international visitors submit their social media activity from the five years before entering the nation.
The announcement, released in the Federal Register by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), indicates that travellers are required to provide their social media accounts in addition to email addresses, phone numbers and details about their relatives.
Authorities claim these actions are crucial for enhancing defense and stopping unlawful conduct.
In June of this year, the U.S. Department of State required travellers to share their media accounts but the updated directive strengthens these rules by obliging individuals to submit a social media history spanning five years.
According to news agencies, this step is expected to make the entry process more stringent, requiring travellers to submit additional personal information so that border authorities can better assess potential risks and enhance the criteria for entry.
US suspends Afghan visa applications indefinitely following security incident
The U.S. Authorities have declared a halt, to all Afghan visa requests after a shooting incident in Washington. This determination was taken by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Communicated through social media platforms.
This suspension follows directly after the event in which two members of the National Guard were shot and killed leading to increased security protocols. Officials report that a suspect named Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan citizen has been arrested.
Indefinite suspension: All Afghan visa and immigration applications are on hold for an unspecified period.
Security assessment: USCIS indicated it will re-evaluate the security measures and screening processes, for applications to avoid potential future threats.
Current inquiry: U.S. Authorities have signalled that further security protocols are being established in Washington while the probe, into the event progresses.
The shooting event has sparked worries regarding the safety of citizens in the U.S. and the possible dangers linked to the handling of visa requests. Officials have assured the community that halting visa processing is a temporary step taken as the probe, into the event continues.
USCIS has indicated that the halt will stay active until a thorough security evaluation is finished and additional measures are put in place to protect the procedure.
Officials have also indicated that Afghan visa applications may be reopened after a thorough review and once enhanced security measures are in place.
