US President Joe Biden will issue an executive order to prevent the large-scale transfer of Americans' personal data to "countries of concern." Senior administration officials say they include China, Russia and Iran.

A statement released on Wednesday says the order focuses on US citizens' most personal and sensitive information, including genomic, geolocation and financial data.

It says the sale of that data raises significant counterintelligence, blackmail and other risks -- especially for people in the military or the national security community.

The statement argues that countries of concern can use data on journalists, dissidents and others to limit Americans' freedom of expression.

It points out that personal data is often legally sold through brokers.

The senior officials said the order will close a gap in national security.

The Biden administration says the Justice Department and others will study concrete regulations, while listening to opinions from businesses.