The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently inviting proposals from tech companies to create a forensic tool aimed at revealing “hidden language” within messages on smartphones being examined at the border. This effort is intended to enhance the agency’s abilities in detecting potential threats and unlawful activities through sophisticated data analysis.
CBP has indicated that it anticipates companies to modify existing software solutions instead of building new tools from the ground up, citing limited time for development. The request for proposals was spotlighted by Wired, which mentioned that the specifics were listed on a government procurement site.
The agency has detailed specific criteria for the tool, stressing the necessity for it to have advanced capabilities, especially in artificial intelligence. The tool must be able to process a range of file types, including audio, video, images, and text, while detecting patterns and correlations that could support investigations related to border enforcement.
A primary functionality desired by CBP is the ability to sift through text messages to recognize patterns or “hidden language” that might not be readily observable. This feature is meant to accelerate data analysis and enhance decision-making during real-time enforcement activities.
Additionally, the tool should be capable of cross-referencing data acquired from various devices or obtained through different methods, improving the overall investigative process. For instance, it could examine forensically gathered electronic data, such as text messages, pictures, and videos, to identify recurring elements across multiple datasets.
The deadline for submissions is July 10, and CBP has indicated that this is a preliminary inquiry for information, with formal bidding requests anticipated to follow. This initiative underscores the agency’s dedication to utilizing technology to strengthen border security and law enforcement operations.
