With more news coming in each day of Customs and Border Protection, or CBP, searches, you might be concerned about how to protect your phone at the border. Here's what you need to know if you plan to travel in and out of the U.S. soon.
Can Customs Search Your Phone?
Yes, travelers' phones and computers may be searched at U.S. borders. Customs and Border Protection officers can conduct two types of legal device searches:
- Basic search: A basic search is a manual search of your device without using external equipment.
- Advanced search: An advanced search is one in which border agents can review, copy, and analyze your phone's contents with external equipment. For this type of search to occur, there must be a reasonable suspicion of a violation of law or national security concern.
Officers can search photos, contacts, and messages, but cannot access content stored on the cloud. Before searching your phone, the Border Patrol will ensure the device is in airplane mode or disconnected from any network.
Can I Refuse a Phone Search?
The answer to this question will depend on your status in the U.S.
- U.S. citizen: If you're a U.S. citizen, you cannot be denied entry for refusing to unlock a device; however, your device may be seized, and you may face delays.
- Non-US citizen: If you're a non-US citizen, you can be refused admission into the country.
How Can You Protect a Mobile Device When Traveling
Now that you better understand whether immigration can check your phone, here are a few tips to protect your phone at the border and feel safer.
Delete Items Selectively
A common mistake people make is to delete everything. While that sounds like a good idea, deleting everything might look more suspicious to border agents. Deleting conversations or pictures selectively is a better way to approach the situation, as it will seem more natural.
Pro tip: Check deleted items in places like Trash or Recently Deleted items and delete them from there, too!
Use Cloud Storage
Don't want to delete some of your precious pictures? Since border agents can only search materials on the device, they can't search items on the cloud. If you want to keep some materials but don't want them digging into it, you can upload them to the cloud. iCloud or Google Drive are some good options.
Encrypt Your Device
You'll also want to make sure that your device is encrypted. Encrypting your device differs from encrypting your messages (more on this here!) An encrypted device makes it more challenging for border patrol to access specific files or recover deleted ones.
Here's how to check if your device is encrypted:
iPhone
- Go to Settings
- Tap Face ID & Passcode
- Scroll to the bottom of the page
- If you see "data protection is enabled," your device is encrypted
Note: If it's not encrypted, you must set up a passcode to resolve the issue.
Android
- Go to Settings
- Tap Security or similar
- Look for Encryption & Credentials or Encryption
- Your device is encrypted if you see "Encrypt Phone" or similar.
Note: Many Android devices will be encrypted automatically. The encryption menu will be unavailable altogether, or the option to encrypt will be greyed out. If you're unsure, set up a passcode!
Turn Off Biometrics
Another technique to avoid border searches is to turn off Face ID or biometrics and secure your phone with passwords. Doing so will make it harder for an officer to access your device. You can also turn off your phone entirely, as it will require passcodes when turned back on.
Get a Travel Phone
If you're still nervous after implementing the above, you can always use a travel phone. Leeja Miller, a lawyer and digital creator, recommends a phone with an Airalo eSIM for travel purposes. Bonus benefits include avoiding roaming fees, great local rates, and smooth connection at your destination.
You're now all set to travel in and out of the U.S. with more peace of mind.
FAQs
How does Airalo work? Airalo provides eSIMs that allow you to access mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card. Purchase an eSIM plan through the Airalo app, install it on your device, and start using data immediately.
How to activate Airalo eSIM? Activation is simple. After purchasing a plan, follow the instructions in the Airalo app to install the eSIM on your device. Once installed, it will activate automatically.
Is my phone compatible with Airalo eSIM? Airalo eSIMs are compatible with most modern smartphones. Check the list of compatible devices.
What if my Airalo eSIM isn't working? Airalo's customer support is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact support through the app or website for immediate help.
