If one happens to cross an international border, especially going to the United States, the border officer from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can, by law, search an electronic device, which includes a smartphone, laptop, and tablet, without a warrant.

Because of this, scrutiny, duplication, or even seizure may be met by the device you carry across the boundary. It is wise to treat a travel phone as any other personal effect, adding more precaution.

Back Up Data and Remove Sensitive Content Before You Travel

One of the best preventive measures is to back up your data and then delete or relocate those sensitive files and apps you won’t need over your journey. The very contents you might carry-photos, log of emails, access credentials, chat applications- are perhaps viewable. Experts suggest that all you have on your phone should be minimized before crossing.

Use encrypted cloud storage, remove caches, and clear recent files, too.

Activate Device Encryption and Use a Strong Passcode

Make sure that the entire phone is encrypted, protected not just by a strong passcode but also by turning off the biometric unlock feature when possible. Most phones default to encryption, but you should verify in settings.

The strong passcode would enhance data protection, particularly when access to the device is requested by border authorities.

Instead, Consider Using a Temporary Or “Travel” Gadget

If you have very sensitive information or just do not want to expose yourself much, consider bringing a temporary or travel device just for that. This is probably an old phone with very little personal data or one just set up for business use. A very minimal gadget will keep your main phone contents under wraps during border inspection.
AP News

Be Sure of Your Rights When Crossing a Border with Electronics

That is to say, a U.S. citizen could not be barred from re-entering the country based on refusal of a voluntary search of his or her devices, but such a person might be delayed by a border officer who then might hold that individual’s device. In the case of a noncitizen or a person holding a visa, refusal to unlock or give away the information, especially contained in electronic devices, can lead to the denial of entrance to the United States.

Know your status and how it defines your rights considering that it is crucial when deciding on handling devices at the border.

Prepare Your Device and Credentials for Smooth Passage

Before setting off, make sure your phone is updated, encrypted and void of unnecessary data. Remove or log out of those applications that contain sensitive business or personal information. Create a separate travel-mode account or profile where possible. Disable Wi-Fi or cellular service, if instructed, once you arrive and brace yourself for an examination. Preparedness and proactivity garner greater control over the devices and data at the borders.

Traveling internationally with devices means preparing for the expected or the unexpected scrutiny. But just backing up data, minimizing sensitive contents, encrypting data, and knowing your rights give you less risk and confidence to travel.

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News Source: Pcmag.com