James Cordero discovered hidden cameras in abandoned trailers along California's border, revealing a surveillance network logging license plates of every driver. The volunteer with Border Angels found dozens of these devices on roads between San Diego and Arizona after federal agencies secured permits during the Biden administration.

Privacy advocates and humanitarian workers express concerns about government intrusion and potential conflicts with California law. The Electronic Frontier Foundation mapped over 40 hidden license plate readers, arguing they bypass state protections. Critics fear the program primarily collects data on local residents rather than targeting serious crimes as claimed.

Caltrans confirmed approving eight permits for federal agencies to install surveillance devices on state highways. The agency maintains it doesn't operate or access the collected data. Federal immigration agencies haven't requested new permits since June 2024, creating an uncertain regulatory environment for border surveillance technology.