Story perspectives

Border Device Searches Surge Amid New Visa Rules

8/24/2025

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Center

Border Agents' Device Searches

U.S. border agents conducted 14,899 electronic device searches from April to June 2025, a 21% increase from the prior quarter.
Concerns arise among immigration lawyers regarding the impact of the Trump administration's policies on travelers.
The U.S. State Department mandates international student visa applicants to disclose social media accounts for review.
Experts recommend travelers clear caches and use travel-only devices to safeguard data during inspections.
The American Civil Liberties Union stresses clear communication with border agents to prevent complications.

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DHS Accountability Concerns

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied a public records request about National Guard deployment, citing loss of text message data since April 9, raising Federal Records Act compliance concerns.
Experts criticized DHS for not preserving communications, questioning accountability, particularly during Trump's administration.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's new spending approval policy has delayed critical contracts, impacting national security and immigration enforcement.
Delays have led to risks, including expired contracts for airport security equipment, potentially allowing fraudulent identification.
FEMA's disaster response is also affected, with contract renewal delays hindering disaster assistance operations.

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Border Agents' Device Searches

U.S. border agents conducted 14,899 electronic device searches from April to June 2025, a 21% increase from the prior quarter.
Concerns arise among immigration lawyers regarding the impact of the Trump administration's policies on travelers.
The U.S. State Department mandates international student visa applicants to disclose social media accounts for review.
Experts recommend travelers clear caches and use travel-only devices to safeguard data during inspections.
The American Civil Liberties Union stresses clear communication with border agents to prevent complications.

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