Lawmakers are renewing concerns over the federal government’s expanding use of biometric data collection, as revealed by Univision News, following a recent announcement of plans to photograph every person entering or leaving the United States. This comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) use of facial recognition technology, prompting demands for greater openness and regulation.
the Biden management’s plan to photograph all travelers-through land, sea, and airport ports-aims to combat travel document fraud and bolster national security. However, this expansion of biometric surveillance builds upon a policy initiated under the Trump administration to collect DNA and other biometric facts from nearly all applicants for immigration benefits. Civil liberties advocates warn these practices pose notable risks to privacy and could disproportionately impact immigrant communities.
In a recent letter, lawmakers expressed their alarm regarding the widespread use of facial recognition, stating, ”As we explained in our September letter, this widespread use of facial recognition creates serious risks to privacy and civil liberties.” They are demanding ICE immediately halt its use of the application and provide answers regarding its policies and practices surrounding biometric technology.
The government’s move to photograph all travelers is the latest step in a broader effort to enhance border security through biometric identification. The Trump administration first proposed the sweeping biometric collection initiative in 2019, seeking to expand the types of biometric data collected-including DNA, iris scans, and voice recordings-from individuals applying for visas, green cards, and asylum.
Lawmakers continue to press for details about how the collected data will be stored, secured, and used, and whether adequate safeguards are in place to prevent misuse or abuse. They reiterate the need for a comprehensive framework to govern the use of biometric technologies by federal agencies, balancing security concerns with the fundamental rights of individuals.
