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Border Patrol monitoring drivers and detaining those with ‘suspicious’ travel patterns

Border Patrol monitoring drivers and detaining those with ‘suspicious’ travel patterns

Summary

The U.S. Border Patrol is using a secretive program to monitor and stop drivers across the country whose travel patterns are considered suspicious. The program uses cameras to collect license plate information and an algorithm to flag certain vehicles, leading to these vehicles being stopped and inspected. This effort extends into the interior parts of the country, not just near the borders.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Border Patrol is monitoring millions of American drivers using a secretive program.
  • Cameras collect data on vehicle license plates to track travel patterns.
  • An algorithm flags vehicles as suspicious based on their travel routes.
  • Drivers flagged as suspicious may get stopped, searched, and questioned.
  • The program initially aimed at border-related crimes, now extends further into the U.S.
  • The Border Patrol collaborates with other agencies, using data from sources like the DEA and private companies.
  • The agency is expanding its surveillance capabilities using new technologies.
  • The Border Patrol tries to keep details of the surveillance program out of court documents and reports.

Source Information