Meta removes ICE-tracking Facebook page in Chicago at the request of the Justice Department

Published: Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 12:09 am

Meta Removes ICE-Tracking Facebook Page Following DOJ Request

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has taken down a Facebook page used to track the movements of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Chicago. The removal occurred at the request of the Department of Justice (DOJ), the company confirmed on Tuesday.

Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the action on X, stating that the DOJ had contacted Facebook, leading to the removal of the group page. Meta cited a violation of its policies against "coordinated harm" as the reason for the takedown.

This action marks the latest instance of tech companies restricting tools used to track ICE agents. Earlier this month, Apple and Google blocked the download of phone applications designed to alert users to the presence of immigration agents. This followed a demand from the Trump administration to remove a popular iPhone app with similar functionality.

Attorney General Bondi has argued that such tracking activities put ICE officers at risk. However, proponents of these tracking tools, including users and app developers, maintain that their actions are protected under the First Amendment. They argue that these platforms are used to monitor ICE activities in their communities and to protect their own safety, particularly as the government intensifies immigration enforcement efforts.

While the Chicago-based Facebook group has been removed, numerous other groups dedicated to tracking ICE agents remain active on the platform, some with thousands of members.

BNN's Perspective:

The situation highlights the complex interplay between free speech, public safety, and the role of tech companies in moderating content. While the government's concern for the safety of law enforcement officials is understandable, the removal of these tracking tools raises questions about the balance between protecting individuals' rights to observe and report on government activities and the potential for misuse of such information. Finding a solution that respects both sides of this debate is crucial.

Keywords: Meta, Facebook, ICE, Immigration, DOJ, Department of Justice, Pam Bondi, Tracking, Agents, Apple, Google, Trump administration, First Amendment, Chicago, Coordinated harm, Law enforcement, Public safety, Free speech, Tech companies, Content moderation

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