This report focuses on data protection for undocumented or mixed-status beneficiary households. In the context of cash-based assistance (CBA) programs, poor data protection practices could add additional risks for low-risk individuals by providing data trails that could pave the way for unauthorized access to applicant or beneficiary data or leakage of personally identifiable information. These could leave a digital footprint that can make it easier for law enforcement to target undocumented individuals.
Considering these risks, we have identified and detailed approaches and strategies used to protect applicant and beneficiary data through four programmatic phases: targeting beneficiaries, outreach and onboarding, disbursement and distribution, and ongoing monitoring and data storage/retention. Insights in this report are gleaned from CFI interviews with cities, community-based organizations (CBOs), debit card providers, and privacy advocates.
This report is intended to guide municipal officials and CBOs considering or developing programs to support undocumented or mixed-status households. The insights may also be of interest to organizations advocating for and supporting the rights of undocumented populations, students and academics, and anyone interested in access to financial and public services for all members of U.S. communities.