U.S. Lawmakers Demand Removal of ICE-Tracking Apps from Google and Apple Stores
U.S. lawmakers are pressuring Google and Apple to remove mobile applications that track the movements of federal immigration officers, citing significant safety risks. The House Committee on Homeland Security has sent letters to the CEOs of both companies, emphasizing the dangers posed by apps like ICEBlock, which allow users to monitor Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in real-time.
The committee argues these apps jeopardize the safety of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel and hinder lawful enforcement operations. While acknowledging free speech protections, lawmakers contend that tools facilitating the tracking of federal agents cross into dangerous territory. Google and Apple have already removed some apps following these concerns, with a briefing requested by December 12.
