ICE watchers say agents used software to threaten and follow them home
The Register
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Two US residents have filed a class action lawsuit against several Homeland Security agencies, including ICE and CBP, alleging unconstitutional surveillance aimed at intimidating and silencing individuals who exercise their First Amendment rights. The plaintiffs claim that federal agents used advanced surveillance tools like facial recognition software and license plate readers to track, identify, and even visit the homes of protestors. This includes targeting Elinor Hilton and Colleen Fagan, lifelong Maine residents, for documenting law enforcement activities in public spaces.
The lawsuit highlights the use of Mobile Fortify, a smartphone app deployed by ICE and CBP since May 2025, which enables agents to search facial data against government databases containing over 200 million records. This tool allows agents to gather personal information, including names, birthdates, nationalities, and immigration histories. Additionally, ICE has a $3.8 million contract with Clearview AI for its controversial facial recognition technology, further expanding their surveillance capabilities.
Homeland Security's arsenal also includes automated license plate readers (ALPRs) provided by companies like Flock, which track vehicle owners, residences, and travel patterns. The lawsuit alleges that ICE uses this data to identify individuals and target them personally. These tools, combined withMobile Companion, another app enabling real-time license plate scanning, allow agents to access detailed travel histories and private information.
The case raises significant concerns about privacy rights and the misuse of advanced surveillance technology in targeting peaceful protestors. For tech enthusiasts, it underscores the ethical implications of facial recognition and data collection by government agencies, potentially chilling free speech and fostering public distrust in law enforcement. The ongoing use of such tools highlights the urgent need for regulations to balance national security with individual freedoms.
This legal battle not only sheds light on the extent of federal surveillance but also calls into question the boundaries of constitutional rights in a tech-driven world. As similar technologies are adopted globally, the implications for privacy and civil liberties remain a critical issue for both policymakers and the public.
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Originally published on The Register on 2/23/2026