Apple Faces Congressional Scrutiny Over Immigration Tracking Apps

Following the controversy that led to Apple removing apps like ICEBlock from the App Store, US lawmakers are now scrutinizing the company over apps used to track immigration officers. In October last year, Apple pulled the ICEBlock app after pressure from the Department of Justice, which argued that such apps endangered the safety of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

The app, which allowed users to register sightings of ICE agents, was at the center of a significant debate involving the White House and US Attorney General Pam Bondi, who warned the app's developer, Joshua Aaron, to be cautious as her department was investigating him.

Recently, the House Committee on Homeland Security sent letters to both Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Apple head Tim Cook, requesting details on the measures the companies are implementing to remove mobile applications that allow tracking of federal immigration officers.

The committee specifically mentioned ICEBlock, expressing concerns that apps in their stores could jeopardize the safety of Department of Homeland Security personnel. Lawmakers have asked for a briefing by December 12.

While ICEBlock was never available on Google Play, similar apps were present and subsequently removed. It remains unclear if apps akin to ICEBlock have reappeared on the App Store or Google Play, or whether the inquiry is merely seeking an update on ongoing screening efforts.

Apple and Google did not respond to requests for comments from Reuters.