A new app, ICERAID, has sparked controversy by claiming to pay users in cryptocurrency for reporting undocumented immigrants. However, an investigation has revealed that the app's true purpose appears to be promoting a meme coin, raising concerns over immigration vigilantism and the exploitation of users.

ICERAID, which describes itself as a "GovFi protocol that delegates intelligence gathering tasks to citizens," has been promoted by right-wing influencers, including conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer and former Rep. Matt Gaetz. The app's website claims that users can earn crypto by reporting "suspicious illegal alien activity," but its functionality is limited to a web form that requires users to upload images of alleged crimes-in-progress.

Despite its lofty ambitions, the app's incident tracker shows only a handful of entries, most of which have been rejected by moderators. Moreover, the app's founder, Jason Meyers, has a questionable past, having been accused of misappropriating funds at a previous workplace. Meyers has also been vague about the app's AI technology, claiming that it is "trained" but providing no further details.

The app's true purpose appears to be promoting a meme coin of the same name, which was launched in April. The coin has a limited number of holders and is currently valued at a fraction of a cent. Early investors have expressed frustration with the app's delayed launch and lack of transparency, with some accusing Meyers of running a pump-and-dump scheme.

ICERAID's marketing push has sparked concerns over immigration vigilantism, with some critics arguing that the app is encouraging everyday people to become immigrant-hunting vigilantes. Similar legislation has been introduced in several states, including Mississippi and Missouri, but has not yet become law.

The app's connections to right-wing figures, including Tether founder Brock Pierce, have also raised eyebrows. Pierce, a child-star-turned-crypto-mogul, has hosted events at his Capitol Hill condo that have coincided with conservative political conferences.

As the crypto market continues to evolve, ICERAID's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unregulated cryptocurrency projects and the exploitation of users. With its questionable founder, limited functionality, and dubious marketing tactics, ICERAID appears to be little more than a meme coin promotion scheme.

As the tech industry grapples with the implications of ICERAID, one thing is clear: the app's true purpose is far from its stated goal of promoting public safety and immigration enforcement. Instead, it appears to be a cynical attempt to cash in on the crypto craze, regardless of the consequences for users and the broader community.