A recent report from The Intercept has revealed that despite previous claims from Google, the tech giant is, in fact, involved in immigration enforcement at the US-Mexico border. This involvement comes through the provision of its cloud computing services and artificial intelligence (AI) tools to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency.

Four years ago, Google Cloud’s CEO, Thomas Kurian, stated that the company had no association with any enforcement activities at the southern border. However, new evidence suggests otherwise.

The report indicates that CBP is modernizing its surveillance capabilities, specifically in Arizona. The upgrades include the integration of machine learning technology developed by IBM and Equitus.

IBM is supplying its Maximo Visual Inspection software, while Equitus provides a system designed to monitor video feeds, identifying potential threats by flagging suspicious activities such as “caravan-style” movements and individuals carrying backpacks marked as “mules.” Google’s role in this initiative includes offering the cloud platform, dubbed MAGE (ModulAr Google Cloud Platform Environment).

This infrastructure facilitates the transfer of video feeds from CBP directly to Google’s servers, allowing for simultaneous analysis of up to 100 video streams. Consequently, the information processed through Google’s AI will aid in monitoring activities along the border.

In response to the revelations, Jim Kelly, head of Google’s Public Sector division, attempted to minimize the company’s involvement by suggesting that they are not directly contracted. He likened Google Cloud’s role to purchasing off-the-shelf technology.

However, The Intercept emphasizes that CBP relies on Google’s infrastructure for its surveillance operations, raising significant concerns about privacy. As noted by Dave Maass from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, these practices risk infringing on the privacy rights of individuals in border communities, especially in light of the CBP’s failure to meet essential privacy policy requirements.