Microsoft Denies ICE Uses Its Technology for Mass Civilian Surveillance

Microsoft responded to reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement has dramatically increased its use of the company's cloud services during recent immigration operations. The tech giant maintains its technology isn't being used for mass surveillance of civilians, though it acknowledges providing cloud-based tools to the federal agency.

Microsoft has pushed back against allegations that Immigration and Customs Enforcement is utilizing the company’s technology to conduct widespread surveillance of civilians, though the tech giant confirmed it does supply cloud-based services to the federal agency.

The company’s response came after The Guardian published a report Wednesday suggesting ICE has significantly expanded its dependence on Microsoft’s cloud services while intensifying arrest and deportation activities. The news outlet based its findings on internal documents that were leaked.

According to The Guardian’s investigation, ICE increased the volume of information stored on Microsoft’s Azure cloud system by more than 300% during a six-month span ending in January 2026. This timeframe coincided with substantial budget increases and rapid staff expansion at the immigration agency. The report indicated ICE appears to be utilizing multiple Microsoft productivity applications, including artificial intelligence-powered tools, to examine and process data housed in Azure.

A Microsoft representative addressed the allegations in an official statement: “As we’ve previously said, Microsoft provides cloud-based productivity and collaboration tools to DHS (Department of Homeland Security, of which ICE is a part) and ICE, delivered through our key partners.”

The spokesperson added: “Microsoft policies and terms of service do not allow our technology to be used for the mass surveillance of civilians, and we do not believe ICE is engaged in such activity.”

Microsoft called on lawmakers, the executive branch, and judicial system to establish “clear legal lines” defining acceptable ways law enforcement can utilize new technologies.

ICE declined to provide detailed information about investigative methods and tools used in active criminal cases, but stated the agency employs various technological resources to assist in apprehending criminals.

President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement policies have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who argue the approach creates dangerous conditions and fails to provide adequate legal protections. ICE has emerged as the primary face of Trump’s immigration crackdown, particularly following last month’s deadly shootings involving two American citizens.

Trump has defended his administration’s actions, stating they are designed to enhance national security and reduce illegal border crossings.

Technology companies have worked to strengthen relationships with Trump during his current presidential term.

This isn’t the first time Microsoft has faced questions about government use of its services. In September, the company terminated certain services being used by an Israeli military division after initial findings supported media reports of widespread monitoring of Palestinian communications. The connection to Israel’s armed forces had sparked internal company protests, resulting in the termination of some employees who participated.