WASHINGTON, D.C. — Requests by the U.S. government for social media user data have surged by 770 percent over the past decade, according to a new report highlighting growing concerns about digital privacy and surveillance.
The report from privacy firm Proton found that major technology companies, including Google, Meta, and Apple, shared data from more than 3.5 million user accounts with U.S. authorities between late 2014 and early 2025. When including disclosures tied to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, the number rises to approximately 6.9 million accounts.
The data shows significant increases across platforms, with disclosures rising 557 percent at Google, 668 percent at Meta, and 927 percent at Apple. Researchers say much of the data originates from everyday digital use, including messaging apps, email accounts, and online activity tied to advertising and artificial intelligence systems.
Privacy experts warn that long-term data retention may allow governments to access detailed records of individuals’ behavior over time. Proton researcher Elena Costantinescu noted that systems designed to store user data can later be used for surveillance if companies are compelled to comply with government requests.
The findings come as federal officials acknowledge expanded use of digital tracking tools, intensifying debate in Washington over privacy protections and national security.
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