Homeland Security has reportedly sent out hundreds of subpoenas to identify ICE critics online

Engadget

by Mariella Moon

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reportedly sent out hundreds of administrative subpoenas to major tech companies like Google, Meta, Reddit, and Discord. These subpoenas aim to identify individuals who have criticized or reported on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents online. The requests include personal details such as names, email addresses, and phone numbers for accounts that have shared anti-ICE sentiments or exposed agent locations. While some companies like Google and Meta have complied with certain requests, concerns about privacy and free speech suppression have been raised. Administrative subpoenas are legal tools issued directly by DHS, distinct from court warrants. Historically used sparingly to investigate serious crimes like child trafficking, their recent increased use has drawn criticism. Steve Loney of the ACLU described this as a concerning shift in frequency and lack of accountability. Companies can choose whether to comply with these subpoenas but often allow subjects up to 14 days to challenge them in court. For instance, Google stated it reviews requests to protect user privacy while meeting legal obligations, informing users when their data is subpoenaed unless legally restricted. In a notable case, DHS targeted accounts sharing ICE-related information on Facebook and Instagram in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. The ACLU intervened, arguing that the subpoenas aim to silence dissent rather than prevent serious crimes. Meta initially complied but faced pushback from civil liberties groups. Additionally, concerns have emerged over broader censorship efforts, such as Meta blocking links to "ICE List," a website exposing ICE and Border Patrol agent identities. Meanwhile, lawmakers are investigating potential coordination between tech companies and federal agencies in removing apps that track ICE locations. This issue highlights the tension between national security interests and the protection of free speech online. As DHS continues to expand its use of administrative subpoenas, questions remain about their impact on privacy rights and digital freedoms. The situation underscores the broader debate over how tech companies balance legal obligations with safeguarding user data and expression in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

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Originally published on Engadget on 2/14/2026