ICE Plans to Expand Social Media Surveillance, Hiring 30 Contractors
In a move that has raised concerns about government overreach and individual privacy, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency is planning to expand its social media surveillance program, hiring nearly 30 contractors to scour Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other platforms for potential intelligence on individuals. According to federal contracting records reviewed by WIRED, ICE is seeking private vendors to run a multiyear surveillance program out of two of its little-known targeting centers in Vermont and Southern California.
The program, which aims to provide 24/7 social media monitoring, will enable ICE agents to identify and track individuals who may be at risk of deportation or arrest. The contractors hired for this task will be responsible for analyzing millions of posts, photos, and messages daily, using sophisticated algorithms and machine learning tools to identify potential threats.
According to a report by WIRED, the program is expected to cost taxpayers tens of millions of dollars over its multiyear lifespan. The hiring process is already underway, with ICE seeking contractors who have experience in social media monitoring and analysis. The agency has posted job listings on its website, advertising for "social media analysts" who will work closely with ICE agents to identify potential targets.
The expansion of ICE's social media surveillance program has sparked concerns among civil liberties groups and experts, who argue that it represents a significant overreach by the government into individuals' private lives. "This is a clear example of how the government is using technology to monitor and control citizens," said Jennifer Granick, a senior staff attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). "We need to be vigilant in protecting our rights and freedoms, especially when it comes to online expression."
ICE officials have defended the program, saying that it is necessary to ensure public safety and enforce immigration laws. "Social media surveillance is an essential tool for law enforcement agencies, allowing us to identify potential threats and prevent crimes before they happen," said a spokesperson for ICE.
The expansion of social media surveillance by ICE comes at a time when concerns about government overreach and individual privacy are growing. The program has been criticized by lawmakers and civil liberties groups, who argue that it represents an erosion of trust between the government and its citizens. As the hiring process continues, experts warn that the consequences of this expanded surveillance could be far-reaching.
Background
ICE's social media surveillance program is part of a broader effort to use technology to enhance immigration enforcement. The agency has been using various tools and techniques, including facial recognition software and online monitoring, to identify potential targets for deportation or arrest.
The expansion of ICE's social media surveillance program has sparked concerns about the potential impact on individual privacy and free speech. As the government continues to push the boundaries of what is acceptable in terms of surveillance, experts warn that citizens must remain vigilant in protecting their rights and freedoms.
Next Steps
As the hiring process for contractors continues, ICE officials are expected to provide more information about the program's scope and objectives. Critics of the program argue that it represents a significant threat to individual privacy and free speech, and will continue to push for greater transparency and oversight.
In the meantime, citizens can take steps to protect their online presence and avoid being targeted by ICE's social media surveillance program. Experts recommend using secure messaging apps, avoiding public posts about sensitive topics, and being cautious when sharing personal information online.
Sources:
WIRED: "ICE Wants to Build a 24/7 Social Media Surveillance Team"
Ars Technica UK: "ICE wants to build a 24/7 social media surveillance team"
This story was compiled from reports by Ars Technica and Ars Technica UK.
