The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expanded efforts to identify individuals who criticize or track U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on social media. Using administrative subpoenas, which do not require a judge’s approval. The agency has requested tech companies to provide names, email addresses, phone numbers, and other identifying information linked to certain accounts.
While companies can choose whether to comply, some have notified affected users and given them time to challenge the requests in court. DHS maintains it has broad subpoena authority and argues that the information is necessary to protect ICE agents in the field.
Historically, administrative subpoenas were used sparingly for serious crimes, but their use has recently increased in efforts to unmask anonymous social media users.
Implications For Visa Holders
Foreign nationals in the U.S., including students, workers, and other visa holders should be especially cautious about their social media activity. Last year, federal agents arrested Yaakub Vijandre, a Dallas-area Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient, after citing his social media posts as “glorified terrorism.” For this reason, it is strongly recommended that anyone concerned about their legal status seek guidance from a deportation attorney as soon as possible.
Contact a Deportation Attorney Today
Although facing the possibility of deportation is scary, we highly advise immigrants to remain cooperative with local law officers and to proactively contact deportation attorneys.
Reeves Immigration Law Group has served immigrants and their loved ones for 40 years, obtaining success even in the most complex cases. Whether you are concerned about you and your family’s legal rights, or facing possible detainment or deportation, our team of immigration lawyers can provide expert advice on how to move forward, and are prepared to do everything in our power to fight for your rights to remain in the U.S.
Contact us today to speak with a deportation defense lawyer regarding your specific concerns. We promise to be by your side through it all because we believe in making a difference in the lives of others and our community.
