US Customs and Border Protection Increase Phone Searches on Travelers, Including Citizens

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers possess extensive authority to scrutinize travelers’ electronic devices upon entry into the country, encompassing American citizens. Recently disclosed data indicates an unprecedented surge in device searches over the past quarter by CBP officials.

The rise in digital inspections underscores the increasing reliance on technology for border control and security purposes. These searches may involve a variety of devices, including phones, laptops, and tablets. The data does not specify the exact number of devices searched or the nationalities of those affected. However, it clearly demonstrates a significant escalation in this practice compared to previous periods.