Tech firms prepare for scrutiny over ICE subpoenas and user data

Google, Meta and other technology companies are facing questions over subpoenas seeking user data related to criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration policy, according to TechRadar.

The report says companies have delayed or pushed back on some requests as they prepare for possible inquiries from Democrats. Rep. Shri Thanedar said companies should be ready to explain their decisions under oath in an investigation into firms that complied with administration subpoenas.

TechRadar reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has searched social media platforms and search engines for material it considers a threat to its agents or operations. Platforms named in the report include Google, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, TikTok and X. Some requests were administrative subpoenas, which the report says do not require a judge’s approval. YouTube citizen journalists were also reportedly asked to provide customers’ personal information.

People familiar with the matter told The Wall Street Journal that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had increased grand jury subpoenas to platforms holding user data. A letter from Sen. Ron Wyden and Rep. Pramila Jayapal accused ICE of using subpoenas to suppress free speech. A White House spokeswoman said threats and efforts to impede law enforcement are not protected by the First Amendment. An ICE spokesperson told the Journal its operations follow applicable law and policy.