On Monday, November 28, Immigration and Customs Enforcement posted to its website the private information of 6,252 immigrants seeking protection in the United States and are currently in ICE custody. The information threatens to endanger the immigrants and put them at risk of retaliation from the individuals and groups they’ve sought protection from.
An ICE spokesperson said the agency is notifying the individuals affected by the data breach and has said it will not proceed with deportations until it is clear whether the shared information affects their case. In addition, ICE is investigating how the data breach occurred and is notifying people who downloaded the information to delete it.
Following the leak on Monday, which was identified by Human Rights First, immigrant rights groups expressed concern for clients’ safety, which may now be at greater risk.
Erickson Insights
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.