Apple drops ICEBlock app from App Store after Trump DOJ demand

[Clicking the App Store icon in iOS 7]
ymgerman

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL [https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/AAPL]) recently removed an app called ICEBlock, which enabled users to monitor and report the location of immigration enforcement officers, after pressure from the Trump administration.

The app was designed as a community resource to let individuals share and track sightings of immigration enforcement, particularly targeting those concerned with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.

The Justice Department, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, argued that the app endangered federal agents by exposing their activities and could increase the risk of assault against ICE officials.

"We created the App Store to be a safe and trusted place to discover apps," Apple said in a statement to NBC News on Thursday. "Based on information we've received from law enforcement about the safety risks associated with ICEBlock, we have removed it and similar apps from the App Store."

Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL [https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/AAPL]) did not immediately respond to Seeking Alpha's request for comment.

Trump's strict immigration policy has been heavily reliant on ICE, whose agents have frequently raided and detained migrants. ICE raided multiple facilities with immigrants who stayed illegally in the U.S.

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