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Fact check: Is ICE creating a registry using social media
Checked on June 9, 2025
1. Summary of the results
ICE is actively expanding its social media monitoring capabilities through multiple initiatives:
- They are currently seeking contractors who can monitor social media, open-source databases, dark web, and deep web using advanced technologies including geolocation and facial recognition [1]
- They already utilize an AI-powered system called Giant Oak Search Technology (GOST) to scan for "derogatory" comments [2]
- The monitoring would include capabilities to compile personal information and identify potential threats [3]
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Several crucial contextual elements were omitted from the original question:
*Timing and Administration:
- The request was initiated in November 2024, before Trump took office [1]
- This is occurring during Trump's administration's large-scale deportation campaign [3]
Scope of Surveillance:
- The monitoring goes beyond just creating a registry, including:
- Psychological profiling and "proclivity for violence" assessments [1] [3]
- Collection of detailed personal information including social security numbers, addresses, and family associations [4]
- Tracking overall negative sentiment about ICE, not just threats [4]
Legal Concerns:
- The ACLU has raised concerns about this surveillance chilling free speech [2]
- The monitoring could potentially capture constitutionally protected speech [4]
**3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement**
The original question oversimplifies a complex surveillance system:
Stakeholder Interests:
- ICE benefits from framing this as purely a security measure, citing an "increase in threats" to agents and leadership [3]
- Immigration rights organizations view this as part of a broader "mass surveillance" strategy [3]
- Private contractors stand to benefit financially from these contracts [1] [3]
Scope Misrepresentation*:
Want to dive deeper?
What surveillance powers does ICE have over social media platforms?
How does ICE use social media data for immigration enforcement?
What privacy protections exist against government social media monitoring?
Has ICE been accused of creating databases of immigrants using social media?
What legal challenges have been made against ICE social media surveillance?