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What are the new social media surveillance measures?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is proposing to collect social media handles from individuals already in the U.S. who are applying for immigration benefits. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance fraud detection and national security screening, which has been a focus since 2014. The proposal aims to monitor social media activity to identify potential risks associated with immigration applicants.
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How does this affect privacy rights for immigrants?
The expansion of social media surveillance raises significant concerns regarding privacy rights for immigrants. Critics argue that this could lead to unwarranted scrutiny and potential violations of free speech. Advocacy groups warn that the measures may disproportionately impact individuals who have already been vetted, creating an environment of fear and mistrust among immigrant communities.
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What are the concerns from advocacy groups?
Advocacy groups, including the Brennan Center, have expressed strong opposition to the proposed measures. They argue that increased surveillance could infringe on civil liberties and lead to discrimination against certain groups. Many comments from the public highlight fears of free speech violations, suggesting that immigrants may self-censor their online presence due to the potential for government monitoring.
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What is the timeline for public feedback on this proposal?
The DHS has opened a public feedback period for the proposed social media surveillance measures, which will remain open until May 5, 2025. During this time, individuals and organizations can submit their comments and concerns regarding the implications of these measures on privacy and civil rights.
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How has social media surveillance evolved under recent administrations?
Social media surveillance for immigration vetting has been in place since 2014, but recent executive orders under the Trump administration have intensified these efforts. The current proposal marks a shift in focus, now targeting individuals already legally in the U.S., including asylum seekers and green card applicants, which has raised alarms about the potential for increased scrutiny and discrimination.