Immigration authorities have been
pushing noncitizens to leave of their own volition, or “self-deport,” as the number of deportations remains at similar levels to last year.
But Anderson, 58, was born in Pennsylvania and is a U.S. citizen.
"The language seemed pretty threatening to whomever it might actually apply to," she said.
A senior DHS official
told NBC News that the department has been issuing the notices to individuals who do not have lawful status to remain in the country.
"If a non-personal email — such as an American citizen contact — was provided by the alien, notices may have been sent to unintended recipients," the officials said. "CBP is monitoring communications and will address any issues on a case-by-case basis."