The app leverages Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Traveler Verification Service, typically used at border entry points, and DHS’s Seizure and Apprehension Workflow system.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is using a new mobile app called Mobile Fortify to identify individuals through facial recognition and fingerprint scans, internal emails obtained by 404 Media show.
The app leverages Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Traveler Verification Service, typically used at border entry points, and DHS’s Seizure and Apprehension Workflow system.
“The Mobile Fortify App empowers users with real-time biometric identity verification capabilities,” one email stated, emphasizing contactless fingerprints and facial image capture using ICE-issued smartphones. Officers are instructed that fingerprint matching is the most accurate feature.
A “training range” and “Super Query” function—integrated with CBP’s Unified Passenger Login system—enable officers to test and cross-check data to determine immigration status.
A video posted online appears to show ICE using the app at a protest. ICE declined comment, while CBP also refused to respond.
Civil liberty advocates warn such tech repurposing expands surveillance. Meanwhile, ICE continues to detain immigrants, many without charges, amid a Trump administration-imposed quota of 3,000 daily arrests.