How to protect your personal data when crossing the U.S. border.
Phone inspections when crossing the U.S. border: What you need to know about your rights and security Electronic checks at the border are stirring fear among travelers. By Matthews Martins on April 4, 2025 Worried travelers should consider locking down their devices before entering the U.S. Credit: Nicolas Economou / NurPhoto via Getty Images In addition to a sweeping immigration agenda that involves limiting entries at U.S. ports of entry, stripping immigrant visas, and deporting undocumented Americans en masse, the Trump administration is revamping its approach to digital security, including the use of personal device searches to detain and deport U.S. residents or tourists at the border. SEE ALSO: U.S. immigration services wants to review potential citizens' social media Individuals, including legal permanent residents and visa holders, have been harassed and even deported by border patrol agents after traveling out of the cou...