https://www.siliconvalley.com/2020/08/13/h-1b-student-visa-bridge-program-opt-poses-threats-federal-ombudsman-says/

A large controversial work-permit program for foreign students and recent graduates poses a high risk of foreign spying and trade-secrets theft and is vulnerable to fraud, according to a new report by the ombudsman for the U.S. immigration agency.

The Optional Practical Training program gives students and graduates up to three years to work in the U.S., and according to Pew Research is often used as a bridge between student visas and the H-1B visa intended for jobs requiring specialized skills. Silicon Valley’s technology giants rely heavily on OPT and H-1B.