Traveling to the U.S. has become trickier, especially when it comes to your electronics. Thanks to new "enhanced vetting" policies, U.S. Customs and Border Protection can search your phones, laptops, and other devices at the border—whether you're a U.S. citizen or a visitor. Buzz60’s Maria Mercedes Galuppo has the story.
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00:00Traveling to the U.S. has become trickier, especially when it comes to your electronics.
00:04Thanks to new enhanced vetting policies, U.S. Customs and Border Protection can search your phones, laptops, and other devices at the border, whether you're a U.S. citizen or a visitor.
00:15So what should you do to protect your privacy?
00:17Start by securing your electronics before traveling.
00:20The HuffPost says that if you can, use a separate device for your trip, one without sensitive information.
00:25If not, back up important files and set up a strong passcode.
00:29Avoid facial recognition or easily accessible passwords.
00:33Consider typing in the passcode yourself if an agent requests it.
00:36And remember, while U.S. citizens don't have to share their phone passwords, visa holders risk being denied entry if they refuse a search.
00:44It's a good idea to keep your phone in airplane mode while crossing the border.
00:48And ask yourself, is there anything I wouldn't want a border official to see?