Federal investigators are facing backlash after requesting banks to search through private customer transactions for keywords relating to former President Donald Trump and his campaign slogan 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA). These efforts are part of the government's ongoing investigation into the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. However, lawmakers and privacy advocates are expressing concerns over potential privacy violations and government targeting.
The House Judiciary Committee claims to have obtained documents from the Treasury Department that show federal investigators pressuring banks to monitor customer transactions. Specifically, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network recommended searching for terms such as 'extremism indicators,' Trump, MAGA, and the names of popular sporting goods retailers like Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods.
