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Apple announced on Thursday that it has removed ICEBlock, the leading ICE-tracking application, along with a handful of similar apps from its App Store following inquiries from the Trump administration. The application provided users with alerts about Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents operating nearby. ICE has been a key element of Trump’s strict immigration policies, with agents frequently conducting raids and apprehensions of migrants.
The Department of Justice expressed concern that the app might elevate the risk of attacks targeting US law enforcement officers. In a statement sent via email, Apple explained, “Based on information we’ve received from law enforcement regarding safety concerns linked to ICEBlock, we have removed it and similar applications from the App Store.”
Since Trump assumed office, ICE has conducted multiple investigations into facilities holding undocumented immigrants. The agency has also apprehended visa holders and lawful permanent residents, as part of broader crackdowns including targeting individuals involved in pro-Palestinian advocacy. Human rights groups argue these actions often infringe upon freedom of speech and due process rights as deportation efforts intensify.
Fox Business reported on the app’s removal, citing a statement from Attorney General Pam Bondi, who said the Justice Department requested Apple to remove ICEBlock and that the company promptly complied. Bondi stated, “ICEBlock is designed to put ICE agents at risk simply for doing their jobs, and violence against law enforcement is an unacceptable red line that must not be crossed.”
Both Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem previously warned Joshua Aaron, the Texas-based developer of ICEBlock, that he is “not protected” by the Constitution and that charges could be forthcoming. This move may also intensify scrutiny of tech companies’ relationships with the Trump administration during his second term.
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