CBP workers spied on exes via databases
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The gist
CBP workers allegedly spied on exes via databases. Nearly 300 misconduct allegations over 13 years raise privacy concerns.
Background
WIRED obtained internal records showing hundreds of allegations of Customs and Border Protection employees misusing sensitive government databases for personal reasons, such as spying on exes, crushes, and colleagues. The records span 13 years and include cases of unauthorized data disclosures and improper queries. This raises concerns about the abuse of surveillance powers by federal agents.
How it unfolded
- 2017A CBP officer was accused of querying his neighbors in federal computer databases.
- 2021A Border Patrol agent allegedly used databases to advise smugglers which lane to use at the border.
- 2022An employee allegedly used CBP databases to obtain an ex-husband's leave schedule during a harassment campaign.
- recentlyWIRED obtained records detailing nearly 300 allegations of database misuse over 13 years, with 99 involving unauthorized data disclosures and 48 improper queries.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- CBP has not commented on the specific allegations, but DHS claims AI systems enhance border threat awareness.
- Public
- Critics express concern over privacy violations and lack of accountability, as records don't show if anyone was disciplined.
Still unverified
The allegations are based on internal records obtained by WIRED; it is not confirmed whether they were substantiated or if any employees were disciplined.