The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has been urged by almost 50 House Democrats, spearheaded by Rep. Yvette Clark of New York, to reevaluate a proposed rule that would not only amplify biometric data collection but also permit its usage in migration and naturalization, according to FedScoop.
Such a rule fails to properly detail how the DHS would ensure security and oversight on the biometric datasets, said the lawmakers in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow.
"It lacks information on cybersecurity protections, retention limits, access controls, independent auditing, or transparency mechanisms," the lawmakers added. They also urged DHS to adopt frameworks that protect citizens instead.
Such a development comes as the DHS has moved to centralize biometric systems, modernize the Homeland Advanced Recognition Technology system, and expand facial recognition under the amended entry-exit program effective Dec. 26. Lawmakers and advocacy groups continue to question security and oversight.
Such a rule fails to properly detail how the DHS would ensure security and oversight on the biometric datasets, said the lawmakers in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow.
"It lacks information on cybersecurity protections, retention limits, access controls, independent auditing, or transparency mechanisms," the lawmakers added. They also urged DHS to adopt frameworks that protect citizens instead.
Such a development comes as the DHS has moved to centralize biometric systems, modernize the Homeland Advanced Recognition Technology system, and expand facial recognition under the amended entry-exit program effective Dec. 26. Lawmakers and advocacy groups continue to question security and oversight.
