Trump administration taps Palantir to compile master database on Americans
The Trump administration reportedly enlisted Palantir to build a centralized database compiling sensitive personal information on Americans from multiple federal agencies. Privacy advocates and former Palantir employees have raised concerns about the surveillance implications of such a master database.
What happened
President Trump signed an executive order enabling federal agencies to share data on Americans across U.S. agencies. The Trump administration has tapped Palantir to carry out data compilation efforts, with the company's technology reportedly capable of compiling sensitive information from the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Internal Revenue Service into a centralized database.
The administration stated it is looking to 'eliminate information silos and streamline data collection across all agencies to increase government efficiency and save hard-earned taxpayer dollars.'
Reported impact
Privacy watchdogs have expressed concern about the creation of a central master database, which could give the president 'untold surveillance power.' Former Palantir employees have also raised privacy and security concerns about the initiative.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.