Migrants Gain Entry Into U.S. From Mexico Using Border Patrol-Sponsored App For First Time

For the first time, Migrants crossed from Mexico into the United States on Wednesday using a government-sponsored app that critics say could increase fraudulent asylum claims. 

Billed as a way to speed up the asylum process for those who made their way to America’s southern border, the CBP One mobile app allows those hoping to enter the U.S. via asylum to input their information into a pre-screening application to set up an appointment with a border official. 

It is unclear how or if the information entered is verified before the individual is released into the U.S., though the app does not guarantee entry. According to Reuters, the app is in high demand. One Florida-bound Venezuelan told the outlet that he was “excited” to see his family after entering El Paso, Texas, using the app.