China Proposes Exit Bans for Cybercrime Convicts Amid Broader Penalty Increases

New Draft Law Targets Cybercriminals with Exit Bans

China's public security ministry has announced a draft Cybercrime Prevention and Control Law that proposes a significant escalation in penalties for individuals convicted of cyber-related offenses. Under the proposed legislation, Chinese citizens found guilty of cybercrime could face an exit ban of up to three years after completing their prison sentences. The draft law is currently open for public comment until next month, signaling an imminent push to implement these stricter measures.

The new bill is designed to complement the existing Anti-Telecom and Online Fraud Law, which came into effect in 2022. It aims to tackle cybercrime and associated activities both within China's borders and internationally.

Expanded Scope and Enforcement

The proposed law seeks to broaden the scope of accountability, targeting not only direct perpetrators but also businesses and individuals who support cybercriminals. This includes entities providing essential services such as payment platforms, servers, or recruitment services. Furthermore, actions like 'spreading fake news and fabricated information' for traffic or revenue could also lead to an exit ban upon conviction.

The legislation would also empower Chinese authorities to take action against mediators involved in laundering illegal gains through cryptocurrency. It extends China's reach by allowing the blocking of individuals outside the country from entering if they are found guilty of online crimes, irrespective of where the offenses occurred. This also means Chinese authorities could hold overseas citizens and foreign entities legally accountable for cybercrime that causes harm within China.

Recent Cybersecurity Law Amendments Bolster Penalties

These new proposals build upon recent amendments to China's overarching Cybersecurity Law (CSL), which officially took effect on January 1, 2026. These amendments have already introduced a significantly enhanced penalty framework for various cybersecurity violations.

• Fines for network operators and Critical Information Infrastructure Operators (CIIOs) can now reach up to RMB 10 million (approximately US$1.4 million) for violations leading to 'particularly serious consequences'.
• Responsible individuals within these entities could face fines of up to RMB 1 million (approximately US$140,000).
• The CSL amendments also introduce a tiered penalty structure based on the severity of the breach and expand the scope of overseas activities subject to enforcement if they endanger China's cybersecurity.
• Individuals receiving criminal punishments for cybersecurity offenses may also face a lifetime ban from engaging in cybersecurity management or key network operations positions.

Addressing Cross-Border Online Fraud

The intensified measures are part of China's ongoing efforts to combat widespread online scams, which have resulted in significant financial losses for many victims. Authorities have noted that some Chinese nationals are lured to Southeast Asian countries with promises of high-paying jobs, only to be trapped in scam operations. The new draft law aligns with China's increased cooperation with Southeast Asian nations to crack down on cross-border online fraud.