The Department of Homeland Security attempted to use a 1930s customs law to obtain location data and personal information of a Canadian citizen from Google, despite the individual not having entered the US in over a decade. The man, who criticized the Trump administration online, is now suing DHS with ACLU representation, arguing the agency is abusing its authority by leveraging US-based tech companies to access data beyond its jurisdiction. The case highlights concerns about government overreach and the use of outdated laws to access digital information.
Background
The case involves the interpretation and application of a 1930s customs law that was originally designed for regulating physical goods and customs duties, now being used to request digital data from technology companies. This raises significant questions about the scope of government surveillance powers in the digital age and the protection of non-US citizens' privacy rights.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 5, 2026 at 10:02 PM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10