Category: US Department of Homeland Security

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

ASHINGTON – The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement announcing that the U.S. Coast Guard has eliminated race-based preferences for college students who wish to enlist and commission as officers in the Coast Guard.
The program in question, the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI), includes a preference for students from educational institutions that meet certain quotas for specifically identified racial groups in their student bodies.
Such requirements stand in stark contrast to the Trump Administration’s focus on fairness, merit, and eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies throughout the federal government. They are also in violation of the equal protection requirements of the U.S. Constitution.
DHS announced the termination of these requirements on May 28.
“The Trump Administration is more focused than ever on eliminating unconstitutional DEI policies like this one,” said DHS General Counsel James Percival. “Racial quotas, like those included in this program for students who want to enlist and commission as officers in the U.S. Coast Guard, are a direct violation of the United States Constitution’s equal protection requirements. By getting rid of these unconstitutional diversity quotas, we are returning the Coast Guard’s focus to military readiness, upholding the law, and making America a safer place.”
“Eliminating racial quotas in federal programs remains a priority of the Justice Department,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division.“Access to opportunities like the Coast Guard’s pre-commissioning initiative should be based exclusively on merit, not the racial composition of your college. This resolution helps ensure that equality of opportunity.”
By eliminating these racial requirements, CSPI can continue to function in a racially neutral manner where merit and achievements, not immutable characteristics, determine who will become commissioned officers in the Coast Guard.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

Sanctuary politicians’ smears have directly contributed to a coordinated attack against ICE law enforcement officers outside Delaney Hall
WASHINGTON – Sanctuary politicians and leftist activists have been spreading FALSE information about the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Newark, New Jersey. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement debunking many of those lies.
“Another day, another hoax about ICE detention facilities. Sanctuary politicians are spreading categorically false smears about ICE’s Delaney Hall facility in New Jersey. These types of smears are inciting violent riots outside the ICE facility in New Jersey,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. “These sanctuary politicians need to stop with the political theatre. No lawbreakers in the history of human civilization have been better treated than illegal aliens. They are provided 3 meals a day, medical care, and receive full due process.”
Below are some of the most egregious examples of falsehoods being told about Delaney Hall:
CLAIM: There is a lack of medical care for illegal aliens detained at Delaney.
FACT: It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care from the moment an alien enters ICE custody. This includes medical, dental, and mental health services as available, and access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. For many illegal aliens, this is the best healthcare they have received their entire lives.
CLAIM: There is an ongoing hunger strike among the inmates at Delaney.
FACT: There is no hunger strike at Delaney Hall. All detainees are provided with 3 meals a day. Meals are certified by dieticians.
CLAIM: ICE custody deaths have reached a record high under the Trump Administration.
FACT: There has been no spike in deaths. Consistent with data over the last decade, death rates in custody under the Trump Administration are 0.009% of the detained population. As bed space has rapidly expanded, we have maintained a higher standard of care than most prisons that hold U.S. citizens – including providing access to proper medical care.
CLAIM: Protesters at Delaney Hall, including U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.), were shot with pepper balls.
FACT: No individuals were directly struck by pepper ball projectiles. On May 25, 2026, rioters obstructed law enforcement from exiting the ICE facility. Officers issued multiple lawful verbal commands for rioters to clear the area. Rioters refused to follow law enforcement commands and continue to obstruct the exit route. Our law enforcement followed their training and used the minimum amount of force necessary to protect themselves, the public, and federal property.
CLAIM: ICE personnel at Delaney Hall have physically attacked detainees, including with the use of pepper spray.
FACT: No detainees were beaten or attacked by ICE. On May 28, 2026, staff responded to a physical fight involving detainees at Delaney Hall. In accordance with established ICE policies and their training, staff used the minimum amount of force to safely deescalate the situation. Following the incident, all affected detainees were promptly evaluated by on-site medical personnel and were cleared with no serious injuries.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

Immigration attorneys representing illegal aliens frequently coach their clients to conceal their past and even outright lie in their asylum claims
WASHINGTON – The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a new directive instructing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take additional steps to crack down on fraudulent asylum claims.
DHS instructed ICE to develop anti-fraud policies that will further enforce 8 U.S.C. § 1324c(d), a law that establishes penalties for violations of document fraud. As a result of this directive, ICE attorneys have greater authority to enforce this law, including enforcement actions against immigration attorneys who file false asylum claims in an immigration court.
“For many years, millions of illegal aliens have committed fraud in our immigration system. No place is this more rampant than in immigration court,” said DHS General Counsel James Percival. “Protection claims like asylum are intended to cover unique and narrow circumstances, but it is standard practice for immigration attorneys representing illegal aliens to assert that virtually every illegal alien is going to be persecuted or tortured in his or her home country. Historically, ICE has depended on the discipline of immigration judges and the enforcement of criminal fraud laws to deter this conduct, but ICE has its own tools. Now, thanks to this directive, ICE attorneys have greater authority to enforce the law and stop the abuse of our asylum system by illegal aliens and attorneys.”
This action reaffirms President Donald J. Trump’s commitment to restoring integrity to our immigration system.
In March of 2025, President Trump issued a memorandum pointing out that “the immigration bar, and powerful Big Law pro bono practices, frequently coach clients to conceal their past or lie about their circumstances when asserting their asylum claims, all in an attempt to circumvent immigration policies enacted to protect our national security and deceive the immigration authorities and courts into granting them undeserved relief.”
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

ASHINGTON — Today, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the U.S. Border Patrol’s twelfth consecutive month of zero releases at the border, continuing the trend of historically low border crossings.
“Twelve straight months of ZERO releases at the border. Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, we are delivering the most secure border in American history,” said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “The days of catch and release are over. We are enforcing the nation’s laws and sending illegal aliens back to their home countries.”
“What a difference, America! The U.S. Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country again this month, unlike April 2024 when more than 68,000 were released under President Biden,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott. “Every minute of every day President Trump’s border security policies are making every American safer.”
The sustained decline in illegal border crossings and apprehensions—now at levels not seen in over three decades—shows the impact of robust enforcement policies. With daily apprehensions down 95% from the previous administration and 15 consecutive months of fewer than 9,000 southwest border apprehensions, the border remains more secure than at any point in history.
Below is a snapshot of April’s key figures. Full monthly reporting can be viewed on CBP’s Stats and Summaries webpage.
Border Enforcement at Historic Levels
Illegal crossings in April remained historically low:

Southwest border apprehensions were 94% lower than under Biden

The U.S. Border Patrol’s apprehensions along the southwest border in April (8,943) were 94% lower than the monthly average of the Biden administration and 96% below the peak of the Biden administration (December 2023). They were also less than what was apprehended in 3 days in April 2024.

Border crossings this entire fiscal year to date were lower than the monthly average the last 30 years

Total U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions along the southwest border during all of this fiscal year through April were 37% lower than just one month on average from FYs 1992 through 2024.

Daily average apprehensions in April were 94% lower than under Biden

The U.S. Border Patrol’s average number of apprehensions per day along the southwest border in April (298) were 94% lower than the daily average under the Biden administration.
The number of U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions per day in April was less than a single hour during the height of the Biden administration (336 per hour in December 2023) and less than the number apprehended every 2 hours on average under the Biden administration.

CBP’s total encounters this fiscal year to date are lower than April 2024 alone

This fiscal year’s encounters (215,876) are 13% lower than in the month of April 2024 alone.

Drug Interdictions That Save Lives
CBP remains on the frontline against drug smuggling, seizing dangerous narcotics before they reach American communities.
Nationwide in April, seizures of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana (combined, by weight) increased 60% from April 2024. In April 2026, heroin seizures increased 73% compared with March 2026 and methamphetamine seizures increased 63%. CBP seized 463 pounds of fentanyl in April.
CBP has seized 61% more drugs this fiscal year through April than it seized during the same period of FY 2024, and CBP seized 53% more drugs this fiscal year than it seized on average during the last four years in this same period.
Additional CBP drug seizure statistics can be found on the Drug Seizure Statistics webpage. 
Trade and Tariff Enforcement
CBP plays a central role in enforcing U.S. trade law and supporting economic security.

$312 billion in imports processed in April 2026.
$21.6 billion in duties identified for collection.

Protecting Consumers and Supply Chains
CBP continues to safeguard the American economy by targeting forced labor and counterfeit goods.

In April, CBP stopped 263 shipments valued at more than $810 million for potential forced labor violations.
CBP seized a quantity of 2,983,850 counterfeit goods valued at over $1.5 billion.

Agriculture Stats/Seizures – Securing American Agriculture
In April, CBP agriculture specialists helped protect America’s agriculture, natural resources, and economic prosperity.

CBP issued 7,181 emergency action notifications for restricted and prohibited plant and animal products entering the United States.
CBP conducted 105,437 positive passenger inspections and issued 690 civil penalties and/or violations to the traveling public for failing to declare prohibited agriculture items.

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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

With this historic contract, the Coast Guard will roll out a brand new class of polar icebreakers that will strengthen America’s dominance in the Arctic
WASHINGTON – The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued the following statement after the U.S. Coast Guard finalized a $3.5 billion contract for the construction and delivery of five Arctic Security Cutters (ASCs), a brand new class of polar icebreaker vessels that will strengthen America’s position in the Arctic.
The contract was awarded to Davie Defense. This is the first of three contracts for the construction of the new ASC class, with two remaining contracts set to be finalized by the Coast Guard soon. The first vessel under this contract is scheduled to be delivered in 2028, and all five vessels will be delivered by February of 2035.
The Coast Guard’s contract with Davie Defense was initially awarded in early February, and was the third ASC contract awarded. These initial contract awards allowed shipbuilders to begin planning while all final details were negotiated. The finalized contract with Davie Defense announced today is the first of those three ASC contracts for which terms were fully defined. The Coast Guard plans to finalize the two remaining contracts soon.
“Finalizing this contract represents decisive action to guarantee American security in the Arctic,” said Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, commandant of the Coast Guard. “The Arctic Security Cutters will deliver the essential capability to uphold U.S. sovereignty against adversaries’ aggressive economic and military actions in the Arctic. These cutters will ensure the Coast Guard’s ability to control, secure, and defend our northern border and maritime approaches.”
Using the $25 billion provided by the historic Fiscal Year 2025 budget reconciliation, the Coast Guard has already ordered over $13 billion in new fleet assets and capabilities. This rapid investment demonstrates the Coast Guard’s commitment to modernizing acquisition, delivering next-generation technology, and revitalizing American shipbuilding.
The ASC program will fulfill President Donald J. Trump’s promise to expand the nation’s Arctic fleet by delivering 11 Arctic Security Cutters. The program will also bring Arctic shipbuilding expertise back to the United States, strengthening long-term industrial capability and workforce development at American shipyards.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

ASHINGTON – The President’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council today released its Final Report, marking a major milestone in the Administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen FEMA’s mission, operations, and accountability. The Council, established by President Trump, conducted a thorough review of FEMA’s capabilities, challenges, and opportunities for reform.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, FEMA is committed to getting resources directly to the communities and people who need them most,” said Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “FEMA is not the first responder, but rather a force multiplier standing shoulder to shoulder with states, tribes, and local governments to ensure rapid and effective recovery. We are driving ahead, transforming FEMA into a streamlined, mission-focused agency that delivers results. Our readiness is stronger than ever, and we are prepared to meet any challenge that comes our way.”
Appointed by President Donald J. Trump, the FEMA Review Council is comprised of senior leaders and disaster response experts from across the nation, including Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and representatives from state and local governments, emergency management, and law enforcement. The Council’s mandate is to advise the President on FEMA’s ability to capably and impartially address disasters, and to recommend changes that best serve the national interest.
Independent of the Council’s work, the Trump Administration has already implemented reforms and improvements to FEMA. Despite a cumulative lapse in DHS funding for more than 100 days, Secretary Mullin’s leadership has driven significant enhancements to FEMA operations, fiscal transparency, fraud prevention, and readiness, resulting in an organization that is leaner, faster, and laser-focused on delivering value to taxpayers and supporting state, local, tribal, and territorial partners before, during, and after disasters.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

ASHINGTON – Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Markwayne Mullin, DHS and FEMA are working with federal, state and local law enforcement to investigate fraud and hold offenders accountable.
Consistent with this commitment, the DHS Office of the General Counsel and the FEMA Office of Chief Counsel have indefinitely suspended former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of South Florida, her brother Edwin Cherfilus and multiple associates and affiliated entities following a federal indictment alleging they misappropriated approximately $5.7 million in disaster funds and used the proceeds for personal enrichment and illegal campaign contributions.
In this case, FEMA provided disaster funding to the State of Florida through the Public Assistance program to support the state-led COVID-19 vaccination efforts.
“Former Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick abused Americans’ trust in the most egregious way possible. She manipulated the COVID-19 crisis to funnel over $5 million dollars of FEMA relief funds to her and her family members,” said James Percival, DHS General Counsel. “This is outright fraud. That’s exactly what a federal grand jury and the U.S. House of Representatives found. I am proud that my office is taking the first step to ensure she is held accountable and American taxpayers’ money is protected from further misuse.”
These actions are in alignment with President Trump’s Executive Order establishing the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, led by Vice President JD Vance, which directs federal agencies to combat fraud, waste and abuse in federal benefit programs, restore integrity to taxpayer-funded safety‑net programs and ensure that benefits go only to eligible Americans.
The overpayment and subsequent misuse of funds were identified through a combination of state-level reconciliation, FEMA’s closeout process, and a federal investigation led by the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Public Integrity Unit. FEMA’s Office of the Chief Security Officer and Public Assistance program staff worked closely with the DOJ to explain FEMA’s funding processes to help trace the flow of funds and support the government’s efforts to protect taxpayers.
Members of the public who suspect disaster fraud related to FEMA programs are encouraged to report by emailing StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov. Timely reporting helps protect disaster survivors, strengthens program integrity and supports the administration’s efforts to safeguard taxpayer dollars.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

ASHINGTON –– The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is observing National Fentanyl Awareness Day by remembering the lives that the illicit drug has destroyed and by honoring the men and women who are seizing this deadly poison before it enters our communities and kills Americans.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid often laced in other illicit drugs and has an extremely high potency – between 50 and 100 times the strength of morphine – with rapid effects for users.
For many years, cartels and other transnational criminal networks took advantage of the open-border policies of the last administration and flooded our country with this poison, resulting in tens of thousands of avoidable American deaths. In 2023, under the Biden Administration, fentanyl took the lives of nearly 73,000 people – equivalent to a sold-out football stadium – while destroying multitudes of families. 
Now, under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, DHS has delivered the most secure border in American history, severely crippling the cartels’ efforts to bring deadly drugs into the U.S. Since President Trump returned to office in January of 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has seized 12,743 pounds of fentanyl.
“The Biden administration left our border wide open for drug cartels to pour drugs into country and profit off of killing Americans. Under President Trump, we are dismantling drug cartels. Thanks to our secure border, we have cut down the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs into our communities,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. “We have saved countless American lives by stopping these poisons from entering the country.”
A powerful reason for officers and agents’ laser-focused attention to securing our border and combatting fentanyl is Angel Mothers like Anne Fundner, whose 15-year-old son, Weston, died after unknowingly taking a fentanyl-laced pill. In August, Fundner stood next to President Trump as he signed into law the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act, which classifies fentanyl-related substances under Schedule I in the Controlled Substances Act. This legislation gives law enforcement agencies like CBP and HSI greater authority to crack down on fentanyl trafficking and requires stiffer penalties for traffickers.
For more information on what DHS and its components are doing to stop the devasting effects of fentanyl on American communities, visit https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/frontline-against-fentanyl.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

Trump Administration Launches Powerful New PSA Warning Kids and Teens About Online Predators During Child Abuse Prevention Month
WASHINGTON – This April, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) marked the second anniversary of the Know2Protect: Together We Can Stop Online Child Exploitation™ (K2P) public awareness campaign. Know2Protect exists to protect children and families from online sexual exploitation and abuse.
Since its launch two years ago, Know2Protect has reached millions of families and communities across the country, helping to build a safer digital environment for America’s children. In recognition of the campaign’s growing national impact, DHS designates the third Wednesday of every April as Know2Protect Day – a day to raise awareness, encourage conversations and inspire action to prevent online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
“Parents and guardians have a responsibility to protect kids online and the Trump Administration is committed to providing those adults with the best resources possible to prevent predators and other bad actors from taking advantage of their children,” said Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “Know2Protect is an invaluable resource and is one of the many ways DHS carries out its duties to protect and defend the Homeland—especially those most vulnerable among us.”
The Know2Protect campaign, led by the DHS Cyber Crimes Center and operated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), now includes more than 30 signed partners and more than 600 Campaign Champions across both the public and private sectors. Industries represented include technology, gaming and social media, as well as youth-serving organizations, law enforcement associations, major sports leagues and non-governmental organizations.
Nationwide reach, real impact
The campaign has achieved more than 1.2 billion impressions through strategic and proactive engagement on its social media channels, paid and donated advertising, earned media, and various partner and influencer activities. The campaign has also reached millions through its educational initiative, Project iGuardian. This broad outreach has ensured that people of all ages are receiving important information about online safety and how to protect kids and teens from exploitation.
To mark the campaign’s anniversary and in recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Know2Protect launched a powerful new PSA to remind kids and teens that not everyone they meet online is who they say they are.
The PSA warns that many online predators will present themselves as a teen boy or girl to groom, exploit and abuse them. This PSA is based on an HSI case. The perpetrator, Kendall Carter, was sentenced in 2018 to 30 years in federal prison for sextorting dozens of kids and teens, including some victims as young as 12 years old.
View the PSA on know2protect.gov or on the DHS YouTube Channel.
The scale of these dangers is significant. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, in 2025 alone, the CyberTipline received 21.3 million reports that included more than 61.8 million images, videos and other files related to suspected child sexual exploitation.
From awareness to action and reporting
Over the past year, Know2Protect has moved beyond raising awareness, empowering people to take real steps to protect kids and teens online. In August 2025, the campaign launched its nationwide call-to-action, Pledge2Protect. It encourages people to keep kids and teens safe online by taking the pledge, which includes a commitment to implement online safety measures, share resources and report suspected online abuse.
More than 300,000 people have taken the Pledge2Protect — including more than 280,000 teens. The Know2Protect website, know2protect.gov, has directed more than 2.3 million people to information about online threats, how to take action and how to report suspected abuse.
“Snap congratulates the Department of Homeland Security on the second anniversary of its impactful Know2Protect campaign,” said Jacqueline Beauchere, Global Head of Platform Safety at Snap, Inc. “As the first entity to support Know2Protect, we’ve commissioned research, provided free ad space and developed interactive tools like the Snapchat Lens to promote learning and engagement. We remain committed to working with DHS to educate youth, parents and communities about the risks of online child sexual exploitation and abuse, and to help empower families to stay safe.”
“Creating a safer online experience for young people requires a unified, sustained effort between government, industry, and others,” said Antigone Davis, Meta’s Global Head of Safety. “We remain committed to equipping parents and teens with essential safety tools and are particularly proud of our work with the Department of Homeland Security’s Know2Protect campaign.”
Expanding public service announcements and outreach
Know2Protect’s messages have reached millions through campaign influencers, partners and Know2Protect Campaign Champions. Country music artist John Rich hosted a virtual Project iGuardian presentation with an HSI special agent, reaching over 3 million views on X. Women’s professional soccer player McKenna “Mak” Whitham, a 15-year-old star athlete, recorded educational videos for kids and teens.
Her “Top 10 Tips2Protect for Teens” video series has more than 470,000 views, and her Pledge2Protect PSA has surpassed 4 million YouTube views. The National Police Athletic League (PAL), a signed partner, helped solidify Know2Protect’s partnership with Whitham, amplifying outreach to youth nationwide.
“National PAL is committed to helping youth in the 200 communities we serve stay safe in cyberspace,” said Dr. Stephen M. Coan, President and CEO of National PAL. “Through our partnership with Know2Protect, we are engaging youth in greater awareness of online threats and providing them with skills to stay vigilant and safe within online environments. We are pleased to continue our partnership with Know2Protect as a founding member of this important and impactful initiative.”
“Families must stay vigilant and informed,” said Know2Protect Influencer John Rich.
Rich was one of the first campaign influencers to take the Pledge2Protect and then pass it to his followers via a video clip on his X account.
“Know2Protect gives parents and kids the tools they need to recognize online dangers, report concerns and protect each other,” he added.”Take and pass the Pledge2Protect today, right now, in fact. Your commitment to protecting America’s kids is crucial in preventing these predators from victimizing children online.”
Education leading to real results
Through Project iGuardian, Know2Protect delivered large-scale, online safety education both in the United States and internationally in countries such as Colombia, India, and Vietnam. As the official in-person training program of the Know2Protect campaign, Project iGuardian is led by HSI and offers presentations to kids, teens, parents, and trusted adults. Since its re-launch in October 2023, Project iGuardian presenters have delivered over 2,860 presentations, reaching more than 261,000 people both domestically and internationally.
During and after these presentations, it is not uncommon for kids and teens to disclose potential online child sexual exploitation. When such disclosures occur, they are promptly reported to the appropriate authorities for investigation.
Those identified as victims are provided with the care and support they need. As a result of these efforts, these presentations have led to 189 victim disclosures, 220 investigative cases and 135 arrests.
To enhance these trainings, Know2Protect partnered with Our Rescue to invite Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) K9 teams to support iGuardian presentations, conferences, and events. Our Rescue-trained law enforcement K9 teams delivered eight ESD K9 demonstrations that showed how trained dogs help law enforcement locate hidden electronic storage devices linked to child sexual abuse material investigations, strengthening audience engagement and understanding.
“Congratulations to DHS on the continued success of Know2Protect,” said Our Rescue CEO Derek Benner. “We’re honored to showcase our Electronic Storage Detection canine program alongside Know2Protect — whether it’s during iGuardian presentations, at conferences or in the community. These dogs not only help law enforcement, but they also captivate audiences and make the dangers of online exploitation real and memorable. We look forward to continuing this important partnership.”
Longtime partner Scouting America has helped expand Know2Protect’s reach by awarding more than 1,000 specialty co-branded Know2Protect patches to Scouts who participate in Project iGuardian presentations. These patches serve as both an incentive and a symbol of commitment to online safety — reinforcing key lessons and empowering youth to take an active role in protecting themselves and their peers online.
“Keeping young people safe online requires informed, prepared adults and empowered youth,” said Glen Pounder, executive vice president and chief safeguarding officer of Scouting America. “Through Know2Protect, Scouts, parents and troop leaders gain practical tools to recognize risks and make safer choices online. We value this partnership and look forward to continuing our work together to reach more Scouts, families and trusted adults in 2026 and beyond.”
Know2Protect worked closely with newly signed partner Boys & Girls Clubs of America to expand educational awareness about online safety for Club adults and youth nationwide. By partnering on presentations and exhibits at national and regional conferences, the campaign provided critical resources and training to help Club leaders, mentors, and members strengthen their efforts to keep kids safe online.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of America commends Know2Protect on its second anniversary,” said Mike Belcher, national vice president and child safety & quality assurance officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “The campaign’s resources have made a real impact for our Club kids, leaders, and mentors. Through nine iGuardian presentations at our conferences in Chicago, San Diego, and five regional conferences, we’ve reached more than 1,000 Club leaders — helping them take action to protect kids online and ensure every child has a safe environment to learn and grow.”
New partnerships strengthen the campaign
This year, Know2Protect welcomed signed partnerships with 13 new technology companies, gaming platforms, youth-serving organizations, law enforcement associations, major sports leagues and non-governmental organizations. These partnerships are vital to the campaign’s mission of empowering families and protecting children online.
Over the last year, Know2Protect’s current partners achieved notable milestones:

Major League Baseball displayed campaign awareness posters at the 2025 All-Star Week and added Know2Protect to its MLB Together website.
NASCAR driver Joey Logano collaborated with Know2Protect on PSA for parents and trusted adults.
Snapchat published a Pledge2Protect Bitmoji Lens marking a fun and engaging way for teens to show they’ve taken the pledge.
Meta created a unique Pledge2Protect profile frame for Facebook users to show they took the Pledge2Protect. Since August 2025, more than 22,000 people have downloaded it, showing their support.
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee is featuring Know2Protect awareness posters at their U.S.-based training facilities, held virtual iGuardian presentations for USOPC staff, and included Know2Protect information in the Team USA delegation app for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics and 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

Upcoming initiatives
Looking ahead, Know2Protect is launching new programs and activities to reach more people and give youth, families, and partner organizations more ways to get involved and help keep kids and teens safe online. The campaign will:

Work with survivors to shape our message: Partner with survivors, their families, and other trusted voices to inform current and future campaign materials and share real stories.
Create and share engaging videos: To reach more people — especially young audiences — where they spend time online, making online safety tips more accessible.
Grow our influencer network: Bring in new influencers, including youth creators and micro-influencers, to share Know2Protect messages with their followers.
Expand Project iGuardian presentation program: Train and equip state and local law enforcement partners to deliver Project iGuardian presentations, allowing the campaign to reach more communities and educate more kids and teens about staying safe online.
Engage youth voices: Work with TikTok’s global Youth Council — teens who advise on platform safety and digital well-being — to get real-world insights from young people, making the campaign’s prevention messaging more relevant and effective for teens navigating today’s digital world.

To learn more about how your organization can become an official Know2Protect Partner or Champion, visit here.
Early intervention saves lives. If you suspect a child is a victim of online child sexual exploitation, visit the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s CyberTipline.™ If a child is abducted or in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement and the NCMEC Tipline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
For more information, resources, and to take the Pledge2Protect, visit know2protect.gov.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.

Source: US Department of Homeland Security – Please note, there is an Important Disclaimer at the bottom of this statement.

WASHINGTON — A U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) helicopter aircrew flew more than 800 miles in near-zero visibility through mountainous terrain, blowing snow, and icing conditions to rescue three adults and one child from an 18-foot vessel trapped on an ice floe near Chefornak, Alaska, Sunday.

“Amid hazardous weather and challenging terrain, this helicopter crew showcased exceptional teamwork, steadfast determination, and bravery in carrying out this successful mission to safely rescue these four individuals,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. “Their lifesaving efforts are a testament to the Coast Guard’s motto: Semper Paratus, always ready. We are proud of the patriots who serve in the U.S. Coast Guard and continue their important work despite the Democrats’ reckless DHS shutdown.”

Shortly before 4:30 p.m. Saturday, watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District command center received a report from Alaska State Troopers that a group of four people on a subsistence seal hunting expedition required assistance after being trapped on the ice for over 24 hours.

Despite freeing the vessel from the ice overnight in an attempt to reach a shore party that had come from the village with snow machines, the hunting party was unable to reach the shore party due to moving ice.

Coast Guard watchstanders directed the launch of an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew and an HC-130 Hercules airplane crew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak to respond. Following fuel stops in King Salmon and Bethel, the helicopter aircrew arrived on scene at approximately 5 a.m. Sunday.

The hunting party had three forms of communication on board, including satellite-based communications, which helped the Coast Guard’s ability to locate and rescue them. All four people were safely rescued with no reported injuries and transported back to the village of Chefornak.
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Disclaimer: This is a statement from the US Department of Homeland Security. The claims made in support of US ICE and claims of guilt against immigrants to the USA may or may not be accurate. What is accurate is that the US Department of Homeland Security and/or ICE have asserted views contained in this statement that could potentially be politically motivated, and it is possible that crimes detailed as fact by the USDHS and or ICE are actually alleged and may not have been tested in a court of law. As such these claims are not necessarily supported or endorsed by MIL-OSI and its clients. However, MIL-OSI can assert that this statement is an accurate record of what the US Department of Homeland Security and or ICE has released on its website and to media.