Is your phone a risk at US Customs?

Started 2 months ago by SamDrifter in Off-Topic

Hey everyone, I just read that travelers heading to the US are being advised to delete social media apps if they’ve posted criticisms of President Trump. Appar...

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Hey everyone, I just read that travelers heading to the US are being advised to delete social media apps if they’ve posted criticisms of President Trump. Apparently, under the latest “enhanced vetting” policies, immigration officials are checking phones and social media activity, and some people have been denied entry because of their online posts. This is making me rethink my upcoming trip. Has anyone experienced this firsthand or have more insights?

13 Replies

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    Wow, this is unsettling. I knew border checks were getting stricter, but scanning personal devices for political opinions? Feels like a privacy invasion. I was planning a US trip next month, but now I’m reconsidering. Has anyone faced issues at customs over their social media?

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    It’s outrageous that expressing an opinion online can impact your travel rights. Freedom of speech is being trampled. Deleting apps might not even be enough; data can be recovered. Better to avoid the US until they respect personal freedoms

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    If you’re still set on traveling, consider using a “burner” phone with minimal data. Also, be aware that even deleted content can sometimes be retrieved. It’s a hassle, but better safe than sorry

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    As a Canadian, this hits close to home. Our government has updated travel advisories, warning about potential phone searches at the US border. It’s becoming a choice between privacy and travel convenience

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    This is a slippery slope. Today it’s social media; tomorrow, who knows? We shouldn’t have to choose between expressing our opinions and traveling. Boycotting US travel might send a message.

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    I had a friend who was questioned extensively because of a tweet criticizing US policies. They eventually let her in, but it was hours of stress. It’s real, folks. Be cautious

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    Considering the risks, I’ve started using encrypted messaging apps and avoid posting political content when planning to travel. It’s a shame, but it’s the reality now.

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    As an American, I’m embarrassed by these policies. We pride ourselves on free speech, yet we’re scrutinizing visitors for theirs. It’s hypocritical and damaging to our reputation.

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    Europe should issue a counter-advisory. If the US is going to treat visitors this way, perhaps it’s time to reconsider our travel policies towards them.

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    I’m supposed to visit family in the US soon. Now I’m anxious about what I’ve posted online. Do I need to scrub my entire digital history? This is overwhelming.

  • Replied 2 months ago

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    Honestly, if you’ve got nothing to hide, why worry? Just be respectful online, and you won’t have issues. Countries have the right to protect their borders.

  • Replied 1 month ago

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    It’s not about having something to hide; it’s about the principle. We shouldn’t have to censor ourselves to appease another country’s overreach. Stand up for your rights

  • Replied 1 month ago

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    This is making me rethink my US travel plans. There are plenty of other countries that welcome visitors without prying into their personal lives. Maybe it’s time to explore elsewhere