Big Tech’s Mixed Response to U.S. Treasury Sanctions

In May 2025, the U.S. government imposed sanctions on a Chinese national suspected of operating a cloud service that facilitated numerous virtual currency investment scams. Despite these actions, the individual continues to maintain accounts across several major American technology platforms, including Facebook, GitHub, LinkedIn, PayPal, and Twitter/X.

The Implications of Sanctions

Sanctions are typically expected to curtail the activities of the accused, especially when they are linked to illegal operations. However, the ongoing access to American tech platforms raises significant questions about the effectiveness of these sanctions in the digital age. This scenario underscores a critical vulnerability in the framework used to enforce such regulations.

Big Tech’s Role and Responsibility

As major players in the tech landscape, companies like Facebook and Twitter/X have a responsibility to verify the identities of their users and ensure that their platforms are not being exploited for illicit activities. The continued operation of sanctioned individuals on these platforms poses risks not only to the companies themselves but also to users who may fall victim to scams.

What Can Be Done?

• Enhanced User Verification: Tech companies should implement more robust verification processes to screen users against sanctioned individuals and entities.
• Collaboration with Authorities: Increased collaboration with law enforcement could help tech firms identify and take swift action against users attempting to exploit their services.
• Education on Scams: Companies can play a role in educating their users about the risks of virtual currency scams and how to identify potential threats.

Conclusion

The mixed response from big tech companies to U.S. Treasury sanctions reveals an urgent need for industry-wide reforms. As cyber threats evolve, so must the strategies employed by tech giants to safeguard their platforms and their users. Without proactive measures, the effectiveness of sanctions and the safety of digital spaces remain at risk.