How to Protect Yourself From Phone Searches at the US Border

With the increasing number of phone searches at the US border, it’s important to know your rights and ways to protect your privacy. Here are some tips:

1. Encrypt your phone: Use strong encryption methods to protect your data from being accessed by border agents.

2. Backup your data: Before crossing the border, back up your phone data in case your device gets confiscated or wiped.

3. Enable biometric security: Use fingerprint or facial recognition to unlock your phone instead of using a passcode.

4. Turn off notifications: Disable notifications for sensitive apps to prevent border agents from accessing sensitive information.

5. Use a burner phone: Consider using a temporary phone with limited personal data when traveling to the US.

6. Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights at the border and know when you can refuse a phone search.

7. Secure your cloud storage: Make sure your cloud storage accounts are protected with strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

8. Use a VPN: Use a virtual private network to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your online privacy.

9. Keep your phone with you: Avoid handing over your phone to border agents and keep it in your possession at all times.

10. Seek legal advice: If you feel your rights have been violated during a phone search at the US border, seek legal advice and consider filing a complaint.