US Department of Homeland Security Expands Biometric Data Collection of Immigrants

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced that they are planning to expand the use of biometrics beyond background checks. Before, the DHS limited their collection of biometric data to fingerprints, photographs, and signatures from anyone over the age of 14. In their new proposed rule, they are planning to add DNA, iris scans, voiceprints, palm prints, and photographs for facial recognition. The main reason the DHS says it is moving toward these measures is to “leverage[e] readily available technology” and to move away from paper dependence for identity verification, according to the DHS Acting Deputy Secretary Ken Cuccinelli. However, the proposed rule includes language that would allow the DHS to use any other technology that develops in the future. This vague language could allow the DHS to use potentially any kind of new technology that develops, regardless of how invasive it might be.

The proposed rule also removes the age requirement of a person needing to be at least 14 years old to collect biometric information. This means that minors will be required to provide such data. Part of the reason for this is because the DHS is trying to verify a claimed genetic family relationship. They say that being able to collect DNA or DNA tests on individuals will help them to protect the well-being of children, whom adults in custody may falsely claim as their own.

Even further, the proposed rule states that it can require biometric data from any applicant, petitioner, sponsor, beneficiary, or individual filing associated with an immigration benefit or request, including U.S. Citizens.

Andrea Flores from the American Civil Liberties Union commented on this proposed rule, stating that “collecting a massive database of genetic blueprints won’t make us safer – it will simply make it easier for the government to surveil and target our communities.”

Sarah Pierce, a policy analyst for the U.S. Immigration Policy Program at the Migration Policy Institute stated that, “[the DHS is] implementing this as if there’s some sort of rampant fraud going through the immigration system, with very little evidence to show for it.”