ICE unit signs new $3M contract for phone-hacking tech

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has entered into a significant $3 million agreement with Magnet Forensics, a firm recognized for its innovative phone-hacking and unlocking technology known as Graykey. This contract, which was revealed through a federal procurement database on Tuesday, focuses on software licenses that will enhance the capabilities of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in recovering digital evidence and processing multiple devices. The purpose of this contract is to generate forensic reports that are crucial for HSI's mission to safeguard national security and public safety. Although the contract does not explicitly name Graykey, it is widely understood that the software in question refers to this advanced forensic tool designed to unlock smartphones and extract vital data. Graykey, initially developed by Grayshift, gained traction in the market to rival similar products, such as Cellebrite's UFED. In a notable development, Magnet Forensics recently merged with Grayshift following an acquisition by the private equity firm Thoma Bravo in 2023. This merger positions Magnet Forensics as a key player in the digital forensic landscape. Beyond this latest agreement, ICE and HSI have previously established multiple contracts with Magnet Forensics and its collaborator, Panamerica Computers, indicating a strong ongoing partnership. ICE's technological arsenal is extensive, incorporating various tools, including facial recognition software from Clearview AI, cell phone spyware from Paragon, and data analytics solutions from Palantir, all aimed at bolstering its enforcement strategies. This recent contract follows a $5 million deal signed last year for Graykey, first reported by Forbes, which underscores ICE's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology in its operations. Graykey has been a vital tool since its introduction in 2016, consolidating its position in a competitive sector focused on digital forensics.