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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced plans this week to update the database used to track noncitizens’ status in order to speed up deportations.
A press release on Tuesday noted changes to the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, an online database used to identify the noncitizen status of individuals in the U.S.
“Illegal aliens have exploited outdated systems to defraud Americans and taint our elections,” said a spokesperson for DHS. “Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, this revamped SAVE system will ensure government officials can swiftly verify legal status, halting entitlements and voter fraud.”
“This overhaul eliminates fees for database searches, breaks down silos for accurate results, streamlines mass status checks, and integrates criminal records, immigration timelines, and addresses. Automatic status updates and a user-friendly interface will empower federal, state, local, territorial, and tribal agencies to prevent non-citizens from exploiting taxpayer benefits or voting illegally,” the statement added.
The update comes after President Donald Trump highlighted record-low illegal border crossings in March, marking the second consecutive lowest daily average in the nation’s history. The president shared the update on Truth Social last week, featuring the unprecedented achievement.
“BORDER CROSSINGS HIT ALL TIME RECORD LOW IN MARCH!!!” Trump wrote in all caps.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection shared the latest updates in a Monday update.
“U.S. Border Patrol’s apprehensions along the southwest border for the entire month of March 2025 were lower than the first two days of March 2024,” said Pete Flores, Acting Commissioner of CBP.
“This is a testament to the tireless dedication and vigilant service of the men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, who work every day to keep our country safe. Their commitment on the front lines plays a vital role in securing our borders and protecting American communities,” he added.
March marked the second month in a row that U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) recorded the lowest average daily apprehensions in its history, with an estimated 264 apprehensions per day. This figure is approximately twenty percent lower than the daily average of 330 in February and a sharp decline of ninety-four percent compared to the daily average of 4,488 in March 2024, according to the report.