Shadow Surveillance: The Unchecked Power of DHS's Customs Law Loophole The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been using an obscure law to secretly obtain private information from journalists, non profits, and unions.
The law in question is 19 USC 1509, which grants the DHS broad power to inspect records for customs imports.
On its surface, this provision seems intended to enforce trade regulations by ensuring duties and taxes are accurately levied on imported items.