DHS Faces Backlash For Exploring Biometric Data Collection From Migrant Infants

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is exploring the possibility of collecting biometric data, including facial recognition, from migrant children, extending even to infants, according to Technology Review.

This potential policy shift, revealed by John Boyd, Assistant Director of the Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM), has sparked concerns among privacy advocates and lawmakers.

Expanding Biometric Surveillance

During a June conference, Boyd explained OBIM’s interest in tracking the identities of migrant children over time. 

The initiative aims to address challenges in recognizing individuals as they age, particularly those who cross the U.S. border at a young age. 

This proposal is part of OBIM’s broader effort to advance facial recognition technology (FRT) for use in identity management.

Currently, biometric data collection at the U.S. border is primarily limited to individuals aged 14 and older. 

However, recent discussions within DHS suggest that age restrictions could be lifted, allowing for the collection of biometric data from much younger children. 

Boyd’s remarks have been met with significant scrutiny, especially given the technical difficulties of accurately identifying children as they grow and the privacy implications of such data collection.

Privacy and Consent Concerns

Privacy experts and immigration advocates have raised alarms about the ethical implications of this potential expansion. 

Ashley Gorski, a senior staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union, emphasized to Technology Review the risks of collecting biometric data from children who cannot fully understand or consent to such processes. 

The lack of transparency and the potential for misuse of this data further exacerbate concerns.

Despite Boyd’s comments, DHS later issued a statement denying any current plans to collect biometric data from minors under 14, contradicting Boyd’s earlier assertions.