Hootsuite CEO Addresses Criticism Over US Homeland Security Contract
VANCOUVER — The chief executive of Canadian technology firm Hootsuite has responded to public criticism over the company’s contract with the US Department of Homeland Security, saying the agreement does not involve tracking or monitoring individuals.
The contract has drawn concern due to the department’s oversight of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Contract Details Emerge
Public records from a US government procurement website show that Hootsuite began providing social media services to the Department of Homeland Security in August 2024.
The contract, valued at up to $2.8 million US, involves the use of Hootsuite’s social media management platform along with related support services.
Role of Third-Party Contractor
The agreement is formally listed between the Department of Homeland Security and Seneca Strategic Partners, a New York–based federal contracting firm. Seneca Strategic Partners is wholly owned by the Seneca Nation of Indians.
However, the procurement listing does not clearly explain how Hootsuite and Seneca Strategic Partners are connected within the contract structure.
CEO Responds to Backlash
Hootsuite CEO Irina Novoselsky said the company’s services focus on managing official social media accounts. She emphasized that the contract does not allow surveillance, tracking, or data collection on individuals.
She added that Hootsuite remains committed to responsible technology use and transparency.
Protest Planned in Vancouver
Despite the clarification, criticism has continued. A group called Democracy Rising has announced plans to protest outside Hootsuite’s Vancouver headquarters on Friday.
The group has called on the company to cancel its government contracts and issue a public apology.
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