Full Report
In this episode of Uncanny Valley, our hosts explain how to prepare for travel to and from the United States—and how to stay safe.
Analysis Summary
# Main Topic
Guidance on preparing for and navigating international travel to and from the United States, with a specific focus on preventing and responding to searches of personal electronic devices (phones, laptops, cameras) by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
## Key Points
- Travel to the US is described as "dicey" due to increased scrutiny, travel warnings, and anti-immigrant rhetoric/policies at the border.
- The central concern discussed is the right and procedure for CBP to search electronic devices upon entry to the United States.
- The discussion is presented as the second part of a two-part series on safety related to digital privacy and civil liberties.
## Threat Actors
- **U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP):** Acting in an official capacity, enforcing heightened scrutiny and conducting border searches.
- **Political Climate:** Referenced as a factor increasing scrutiny (e.g., "President Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies").
## TTPs
- **Electronic Device Search:** CBP personnel are reportedly questioning or detaining travelers based on content found on phones, laptops, and cameras during border crossings.
- **Increased Detainment/Denial of Entry:** Visa holders and foreign visitors are reportedly facing more frequent detainment or denial of entry.
## Affected Systems
- Portable electronic devices carried by international travelers:
- Smartphones
- Laptops
- Cameras
## Mitigations
*(Note: Specific technical mitigations were alluded to but not fully detailed in the provided transcript extract. The summary reflects the *intent* to provide defenses.)*
- The episode intends to provide specific tips on **what to do with a smartphone** and **how to protect personal information** when crossing the US border, especially regarding potential device searches.
- Travelers are advised to read related security team reports published on WIRED.com for detailed steps.
## Conclusion
International travel to the US currently presents heightened security risks concerning digital privacy at the border. Travelers should proactively prepare their electronic devices and personal data to mitigate risks of invasive searches, detainment, or denial of entry by consulting expert security guidance.