I will be entering the US in October to work for about a year and half as a visiting researcher. I will be accompanied by my partner and his two children.

I am very scared on what to expect at the border because of all the stories I hear about detentions, refusals, etc.

My concerns are:

  1. Do they ask everyone to unlock their phones and download EVERYTHING in there for later analysis?
  2. Related to point 1., refusing to unlock and give access will make you suspect and they refuse entry?
  3. Do they also ask you to unlock your laptop? I have stuff encrypted there as I often have to process sensitive patient data for a project I am working.
  4. Do they do a complete biometric data collection of you and the kids?

Also, how do we conduct ourselves at the border entry to avoid getting absolutely shafted?

P.S.: I am not in a position to call off the trip. Visa is ready and tickets are brought.

  • FlashMobOfOne@lemmy.world
    142·
    1 day ago

    Regarding your concerns.

    1. Yes, your phone will almost certainly be examined upon entry. There are likely guides online as to how to protect your data so you can safely remove it before entering on YouTube or available via civil rights groups like the ACLU. I’m guessing you’ll need to create a backup, delete everything that might hurt Donald Trump’s feelings before you travel, and then restore it once you’re in the country from the cloud.
    2. Probably.
    3. Your employer almost certainly has a policy and training for you if you’re traveling internationally with confidential data. I work for a law firm myself and those resources are available for people traveling to other countries. Check with your IT department.
    4. This I cannot speak to, but maybe speak to your peers at work who travel internationally or if you know anyone who traveled to the US recently for the World Cup they may be able to provide more guidance.

    I’m sorry our border crossings are so stupid.