this post was submitted on 16 Jul 2024
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Privacy

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Traveling to the US - How to prepare (startrek.website)
submitted 5 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
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I'm traveling to the US mainland for the first time in my life in a few weeks.

I am not overly stressed about privacy, but I have read that US immigration can really overstep their boundaries. Are there any simple specific steps to take on my devices to protect my privace when going through US border control?

Remove my main accounts from my phone/tablet and use dummy accounts? Or just removing my biometrics?

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[–] [email protected] 12 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 children)

I’m pretty sure that immigration in the US can just confiscate your devices if you are not a citizen .

CBP can and does "detain" travelers' devices at (or near) the border, without a warrant or any stated cause, even if they are US citizens.

Here is part of the notice they give people when they do:

Screenshot of the initial paragraphs of CBP Publication No. 3160-0423, Revised April 2023, titled "Border Search of Electronic Devices" with text: All persons, baggage, and merchandise arriving in, or departing from, the United States are subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This search authority includes all electronic devices crossing our nation’s borders. What to Expect You are receiving this document because CBP intends to conduct a border search of your electronic device(s). This may include copying and retaining data contained in the device(s). The CBP officer conducting the examination will speak with you and explain the process. Travelers are obligated to present electronic devices and the information resident on the device in a condition that allows for the examination of the device and its contents. Failure to assist CBP in accessing the electronic device and its contents for examination may result in the detention of the device in order to complete the inspection. Throughout CBP’s inspection, you should expect to be treated in a courteous, dignified, and professional manner. As border searches are a law enforcement activity, CBP officers may not be able to answer all of your questions about an examination that is underway. If you have concerns, you can always ask to speak with a CBP supervisor. CBP will return your electronic device(s) prior to your departure from the port of entry unless CBP identifies a need to temporarily detain the device(s) to complete the search or the device is subject to seizure. If CBP detains or seizes your device(s), you will receive a completed written custody receipt detailing the item(s) being detained or seized, who at CBP will be your point of contact, and how to contact them. To facilitate the return of your property, CBP will request contact information.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 5 months ago

Maybe what I was thinking was that they can’t deny entry to citizens. Im not sure exactly, but there was some benefit citizens had.