US CBP Phone Searches: A Surge in Electronic Device Inspections
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported that it searched 55,318 electronic devices in 2025, marking a 17.6% increase from the 47,074 searches conducted in 2024. This uptick in inspections reflects a growing trend in border security practices, particularly concerning electronic devices.
The increase in device searches is particularly notable among U.S. travelers, with the number of inspections rising from 8,657 in 2023 to 13,590 in 2025. Basic searches accounted for the majority of these inspections, with 50,922 basic searches conducted in 2025, up from 42,725 in the previous year. Advanced searches also saw a slight increase, rising to 4,396 in 2025 from 4,322 in 2024.
CBP officers have the authority to request passwords for devices, and refusal to comply may lead to device seizure. This policy has raised concerns among travelers regarding privacy and the extent of government authority at the border. As one official noted, “U.S. border agents are entitled to search your electronic devices, such as your phones, computers or tablets, when you are entering the United States.”
In addition to the increase in searches, smartwatches and SIM cards are now also subject to inspection by U.S. Customs. This expansion of what constitutes a searchable device reflects a broader trend in border security, where the focus is increasingly on digital information as a means to combat various illegal activities.
Global Affairs Canada issued a warning last year about potential device checks at the U.S. border, indicating that travelers should be prepared for increased scrutiny. Similarly, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has implemented stricter rules for device examinations, suggesting a coordinated effort to enhance border security measures across North America.
Despite the significant increase in searches, the CBP has not disclosed the percentage of searches conducted on travelers from Canada or other countries. This lack of transparency raises questions about the overall scope of these inspections and their implications for international travelers.
Observers note that device checks have extended to American citizens, with a noticeable increase in 2025. All travelers crossing the United States border are subject to CBP inspection, and the trend indicates a continuing emphasis on security at the expense of personal privacy. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how many searches will occur in 2026 compared to previous years.