Microsoft says it does not think US ICE uses firm's tech for mass surveillance of civilians

Core Viewpoint - Microsoft asserts that it does not believe the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is using its technology for mass surveillance of civilians, despite reports indicating increased reliance on Microsoft's cloud services for operational data storage and analysis [1]. Group 1: Microsoft’s Position - Microsoft provides cloud-based productivity and collaboration tools to ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) [1]. - The company emphasizes that its policies prohibit the use of its technology for mass surveillance and expresses the belief that ICE is not engaged in such activities [1]. - Microsoft calls for clear legal guidelines from U.S. Congress and the executive branch regarding the use of emerging technologies by law enforcement [1]. Group 2: ICE's Operations - Reports indicate that ICE has more than tripled the amount of data stored in Microsoft's Azure cloud platform in the six months leading up to January 2026, coinciding with an increase in the agency's budget and workforce [1]. - ICE utilizes various forms of technology, including Microsoft's productivity and AI-driven tools, to assist in criminal investigations and arrests [1]. - The agency has refrained from commenting on specific investigative techniques or technologies used in ongoing operations [1]. Group 3: Context and Reactions - The scrutiny of ICE's operations has intensified amid criticisms from human rights advocates regarding the agency's practices and the broader implications of its actions under the Trump administration [1]. - Microsoft has previously faced backlash over its technology's use by governments, including a situation involving the Israeli military, which led to internal protests [1].