U.S. border agents searched electronic devices of over 55,000 travelers in fiscal year 2025. The searches, conducted by Customs and Border Protection (C.B.P.), targeted phones, laptops, and other devices at ports of entry. The agency reported the searches aimed to detect digital contraband, terrorism-related content, and information affecting visitor admissibility.
The number of searches increased from the previous two years. However, they represented a small fraction, about 0.01 percent, of the 420 million travelers entering or exiting the U.S. in fiscal year 2025.
The searches sparked controversy after a French scientist was turned away in March. French authorities alleged the decision stemmed from messages criticizing President Trump. U.S. officials denied political motivations.
C.B.P. maintains broad authority for these searches under an exception to Fourth Amendment protections. Jessica Turner, a C.B.P. spokeswoman, stated the searches are critical for national security. The legality and scope of these searches continue to be debated. Further legal challenges and policy clarifications are possible.
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Vox's Future Perfect team has released its annual predictions for 2026, focusing on significant global events and trends. The forecasts, accompanied by probability assessments, cover a range of critical issues, from the stability of US democracy and potential economic downturns to geopolitical tensions and cultural shifts, reflecting a commitment to transparent and evidence-based analysis.
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