As immigration operations continue in Southern California and the US, new apps that allow users to report sightings of ice agents in their area are gaining attention and controversy.
The platform, called Iceblock, was launched in April in response to President Donald Trump’s crackdown on immigration and subsequent mass protests, according to app creator Joshua Aaron.
With this app, users report sightings of immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) activities, as Aaron said, is an effort to protect bystanders from physical conflict.
“That’s what this whole thing is. By having as many people as possible, everyone can protect themselves and their community from what’s going on in this country,” Aaron told KTLA’s Lindsay Pena.
Joshua Aaron, developer of the Iceblock app, said the platform allows users to report ICE agents sightings and community immigration enforcement activities. (KTLA) Ice Block App allows users to report sightings of ice agents and immigration enforcement activities in the community. (KTLA) Ice Block App allows users to report sightings of ice agents and immigration enforcement activities in the community. (KTLA) Joshua Aaron, developer of the Iceblock app, will be speaking to KTLA on July 1, 2025. (KTLA)
Aaron said the reports submitted to the app are anonymous and users can report ice sightings within five miles of their current location. You can also receive push notifications for activities in their area.
To keep the app 100% anonymous, Aaron said it is only available on iOS as he claims that it is necessary to collect user data by providing the app on Android.
He has not tried to disrupt law enforcement activities, but instead emphasized protecting civilians from violent encounters in their communities.
“No one will dock this app,” he said. “There are no photos or videos. The app is about notifying us, not obstructing. It does not tolerate violence against law officers or federal officials, to help people avoid conflict in the first place.”
The app has around 20,000 users, most of whom are based in Los Angeles, and has gained criticism and pushdowns from the White House and federal staff, with some concerned about potential safety issues for their agents.
White House press director Karoline Leavitt criticized the app during a recent briefing.
Southern California influencers use platforms to warn residents of immigrant raids
In a statement, Ice Director Todd Lyons said “I’m tired of apps that basically draw targets on the backs of federal law enforcement officials.”
However, Aaron supports the app’s purpose of notifying residents of immigration enforcement activities.
“In recent years, ICE has faced criticism for civil rights violations and adherence to constitutional principles and legitimate processes, and it has become important for the community to continue to inform its activities,” read the statement on the app’s website.
Aaron said he hopes more people will download and use the app to report sightings despite the pushbacks and threats he has received.
“You’re going to get blowback, you’re going to get a threat,” he admitted. “I received three death threats in an email last night. You can’t be terrified. This is important if you can save one person’s life and help one person avoid meeting or horrifying situations.”
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