Surveillance Overreach: How “Catch and Revoke” Threatens Free Speech and Privacy
The federal government is escalating social media surveillance on student visa holders, targeting “pro-Hamas” speech and more to revoke visas. This program, dubbed “Catch and Revoke,” uses AI to scrutinize posts, risking First Amendment rights. With over 1600 visas already canceled, the chilling effect on free speech is palpable.

Hot Take:
Looks like Big Brother has been hitting the gym and is now lurking on social media to catch student visa holders saying un-American things. Who knew expressing your opinion could cost you a student visa? Apparently, even emojis can get you into trouble now. Welcome to the era of ‘Like’ at your own risk!
Key Points:
- The “Catch and Revoke” program targets student visa holders’ social media for anti-U.S. sentiment.
- Over 1600 student visas have been revoked due to online speech.
- Potential First Amendment violations by surveilling protected political speech.
- Automated tools and AI are used for social media surveillance.
- Surveillance extends to U.S. citizens interacting with visa holders.
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