ICE-tracking apps pulled from the App Store
Developers say the removals follow pressure from the US Department of Justice.
Apple has taken down several mobile apps used to track US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity, sparking backlash from developers and digital rights advocates. The removals follow reported pressure from the US Department of Justice, which has cited safety and legal concerns.
One affected app, Eyes Up, was designed to alert users to ICE raids and detention locations. Its developer, identified only as Mark for safety reasons, said he believes the decision was politically motivated and vowed to contest it.
The takedown reflects a wider debate over whether app stores should host software linked to law enforcement monitoring or protest activity. Developers argue their tools support community safety and transparency, while regulators say such apps could risk interference with federal operations.
Apple has not provided detailed reasoning for its decision beyond referencing its developer guidelines. Google has also reportedly removed similar apps from its Play Store, citing policy compliance. Both companies face scrutiny over how content moderation intersects with political and civil rights issues.
Civil liberties groups warn that the decision could set a precedent limiting speech and digital activism in the US. The affected developers have said they will continue to distribute their apps through alternative channels while challenging the removals.
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