The Deterring American AI Model Theft Act of 2026 seeks to safeguard United States national security and economic interests by preventing foreign adversaries from illicitly acquiring proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) model capabilities. It recognizes that advanced, closed-source AI models owned by U.S. companies are critical assets, and their unauthorized extraction poses a significant threat to intellectual property and competitiveness. The bill defines "model extraction attacks" as unauthorized efforts to replicate or train other AI models by circumventing access controls, using fraudulent credentials, or violating terms of service. It also targets "fraudulent account network providers" that facilitate such attacks by enabling entities of concern to bypass geographic restrictions. "Countries of concern" specifically include China and Russia, along with other designated nations. A key provision requires the Secretary of State, in coordination with other agencies, to conduct an assessment within 180 days to identify entities of concern engaged in model extraction attacks or acting as fraudulent network providers. This assessment will analyze attack methods, economic consequences, and develop a diplomatic strategy to counter these threats. The findings will be reported to Congress and updated annually. Furthermore, the bill mandates the creation of a public "AI Model Extraction Attackers List" to name individuals and entities identified as conducting these attacks. It also establishes an information-sharing mechanism for AI model owners to confidentially report incidents. The Secretary of Commerce will publish best practices for detecting, preventing, and responding to such attacks. To deter these activities, the bill authorizes the addition of identified entities to the Commerce Department's Entity List . It also grants the President the authority to impose sanctions , including blocking property and interests, against entities of concern found to be engaging in or facilitating model extraction attacks, with specific exceptions for humanitarian aid and international obligations.