CNN 5 Things One Thing: Does ICE Know Who You Are?
Feb 8, 2026
Juliette Kayyem, former DHS assistant secretary and national security analyst, explains biometrics, AI and how databases expand ID reach. Nicole Cleland, a legal observer tracking ICE encounters, recounts being identified by agents using phone-based recognition. They discuss phone cameras, drones, error rates, privacy changes people make, and calls for transparency and oversight.
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Agent Said They Used Facial Recognition
- Nicole Cleland describes an ICE agent confronting her and saying, “I am using facial recognition.”
- The interaction left her feeling vulnerable and changed how she uses apps and security settings.
Harden Your Digital Footprint Immediately
- Change identifiers and tighten device security after being identified by law enforcement.
- Remove biometric unlocks and use strong PINs and review social media privacy settings.
Trusted Traveler Status Suddenly Revoked
- Days after the encounter, Nicole learned Global Entry and TSA PreCheck were revoked without explanation.
- She believes the biometric interaction likely triggered the revocation of her trusted traveler status.