ICE-Tracking App Climbs App Store Rankings

The app known as ICEBlock, designed for users to discreetly report encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, has skyrocketed in popularity on the App Store after receiving criticism from the Trump administration.

This app attracts attention due to remarks made by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who condemned CNN’s coverage of ICEBlock as an 'obstruction of justice.'

App's Rise to Fame

In the wake of Noem's comments, ICEBlock's popularity surged overnight, briefly placing it at the pinnacle of the App Store before slipping to the third position. The app facilitates the reporting of ICE official sightings with just a couple of taps and allows users to view alerts submitted by others within a five-mile radius. Importantly, the app ensures user anonymity by not storing personal information, thus reports can't be traced back to individual users.

Government and User Backlash

On the same Tuesday, Noem revealed plans to seek collaboration with the Department of Justice to potentially take legal action against CNN for its coverage of ICEBlock, asserting that the reporting promotes evasion of law enforcement duties.

ICE acting Director Todd Lyons echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that CNN’s reporting poses risks to the safety of law enforcement officers. Despite these claims, ICEBlock incorporated a message to dissuade users from using the app for violent or obstructive actions against law enforcement entities.

Response from Users and Developers

Developed in retaliation to President Trump’s nationwide deportation initiatives, ICEBlock was introduced in April and has amassed over 20,000 users, predominantly in Los Angeles where deportation raids are more frequent.

The controversy incited by the Trump administration didn’t stifle ICEBlock’s popularity but rather heightened it. Despite its current unavailability on the Google Play Store due to privacy concerns, the app remains a focal point amidst fake versions attempting to mimic its functionality.

The app has also seen increased engagement from Trump supporters and right-wing influencers, some of whom are reportedly attempting to manipulate the system by submitting fictitious alerts to obscure genuine reports.

Public Reaction and Future

Meanwhile, The Verge has approached Apple for a comment regarding ICEBlock’s presence on the App Store but has yet to receive a reply.