Do you need help with your immigration case? Call now for a consultation directly with the lawyer. We represent clients throughout the United States.

202-709-6439

Protect your privacy: Discover how the government uses artificial intelligence to track immigrants' data

  • 4 min read
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been using Babel X to collect and analyze social media data. This tool can identify potential national security threats such as terrorist activities or human trafficking, but it also has the potential to be used to violate the privacy of immigrants.  Babel X allows DHS agents to access more than 200 online information sources, including social media (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram), blogs, forums, news, and websites. According to the platform's official website, the system can process more than 40 languages and dialects, as well as detect patterns, trends, sentiments, and anomalies in the data.  You can also track the movements of individuals and groups, and gather information on potential criminal activities.  (Infographic)  Learn how to protect your data while browsing the Internet  Immigrants are often targeted by scammers and identity thieves because they may be unfamiliar with the laws of their new country or lack the resources to protect themselves. In addition, immigrants often do not report data breaches or other privacy violations to law enforcement for fear of being deported.  The possibility that Babel X could be used to violate the privacy of immigrants is a matter of grave concern. The tool collects a large amount of data about people, including their social media activity, travel history, and contacts. These data could be used to track immigrants, identify them as potential threats, or even deport them.  Here are some tips to keep your data secure: 
  1. Be careful with what you share online
When using social media, be careful about what you share. Do not post anything that could be used to identify you or your location. If you need to share personal information, make sure to use strong privacy settings. 
  1. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication
A strong password has at least 12 characters and includes a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by asking you to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password. 
  1. Use a VPN when using public Wi-Fi
A VPN encrypts your traffic, making it much harder for someone to steal your data. If you are using public Wi-Fi, like in a coffee shop or an airport, make sure to use a VPN. 
  1. Be careful with the apps you download
Only download apps from trusted sources. Before downloading an app, read the reviews to see what other users have to say about it. 
  1. Watch out for scams from phishing
The scams of phishing they are emails or text messages that appear to come from a legitimate source, such as a bank or a government agency. These emails or text messages often contain a link that, when clicked, will take you to a fake website that looks like the real website. Once you enter your personal information on the fake website, the scammer can steal it. 
  1. Back up your data periodically
If your data is stolen, you will be glad you have a backup. Back up your data to an external hard drive, a cloud storage service, or both.  The data security threat landscape is constantly changing, so it is important to stay up to date. By following these tips, you will protect your data from Babel X and other sensitive information collection tools.  (With information from Vice)