Topic of the Day: New Bill Would Require Warrant for Device Search

13 On Your Side wants to know your thoughts:

It’s become the new norm having your electronic devices checked before entering the U.S. A procedure used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to see if you pose a threat.

The procedure has been in place since 2009; but, a recent CBP report shows that searches have jumped dramatically from just a few thousand a year to just under 24,000 in 2016 alone.

Many Americans see this as an invasion of privacy and they’re not alone; a bipartisan bill has been introduced that if passed will make these searches illegal without a warrant.

But, while the bill goes through the motions many travelers are finding it’s much easier to carry devices with no personal information on them when traveling outside the U.S. and if your device is searched you can refuse to unlock it; but you can be charged and fined for refusing to do so.

13 On Your Side wants to know your thoughts:

Should CBP be able to search your electronic devices?

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