International football supporters planning to travel to the United States for this summer's FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US, are being urged to prepare for more than just match tickets. New concerns have emerged over strict border controls that could see officials examining travellers' personal electronic devices and social media histories.
Heightened Scrutiny at the Border
In a move that has alarmed privacy advocates, officials announced in December that overseas visitors might soon be required to make their social media posts from the last five years open to inspection. Any perceived anti-American sentiment found could result in entry being denied. This follows an incident last March where a French scientist was refused entry after border agents searched his phone and found messages critical of former President Trump's policies.
While US authorities deny that political views influence entry decisions, the legal basis for such searches is clear. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) holds the power to inspect phones, laptops, and other devices under an exception to the Fourth Amendment. Data reveals the agency conducted 55,318 electronic device searches in the 2025 fiscal year. Although this represents only about 0.01% of the nearly 420 million travellers who entered the US, the possibility remains a pressing concern for fans this summer.
Eight Expert Tips for a Smooth Entry
We consulted three security and travel specialists for their advice on how fans can safeguard their private information and navigate potential inspections without incident.
1. Reduce On-Device Data
Before departure, travellers should meticulously remove sensitive or unnecessary files stored locally on their phones, as border checks often focus on this data. Experts caution that deleting everything or using a temporary 'burner' phone can itself raise suspicion, so the goal is prudent reduction, not complete erasure.
2. Back Up Essential Information
Crucial photos, documents, and contacts should be backed up to a secure cloud service or another device left at home. This step protects personal data if a phone is temporarily held and keeps the majority of your content out of the inspection's scope, explains Christian Petzold of CityTrip Travel, ensuring the entry process moves more smoothly.
3. Employ a Strong Passcode
Opt for a robust PIN or password over biometric unlocks like facial or fingerprint recognition. "A manual passcode gives you more control over access during an inspection," says Jasper Adams, CEO of Team Fusion. "It avoids inadvertent access if an officer handles the device."
4. Travel with a 'Clean' Device
Lorena Basualdo, a luxury travel advisor, recommends creating a deliberate 'clean' device plan. "Days before your flight, sign out of cloud email and drive apps, remove banking and work applications, clear downloads, and delete old chat attachments. Leave only essential travel content stored locally."
5. Switch to Airplane Mode
If your device is examined, placing it in airplane mode ensures only locally stored data is visible, preventing cloud content from loading. Basualdo adds, "This allows officers to view the minimal, travel-only material you prepared."
6. Understand the Rules of Search
Search powers vary. In the US, CBP can conduct basic searches without a warrant and, in some cases, use advanced tools to copy data. Adams stresses the importance of knowing this distinction to understand the potential scope of an inspection. A bit of homework on the limits of what you must provide will lessen anxiety, especially during high-traffic events like the World Cup, notes Petzold.
7. Keep Phones Charged and Accessible
Arrive with your phone fully charged and easily accessible, along with a charging cable. A dead or hard-to-reach device can cause significant delays during busy World Cup entry periods.
8. Stay Calm and Cooperative
Maintain a polite, professional demeanour. Answer questions directly and avoid making sudden changes to your device during an inspection, as this can arouse suspicion. "Stay courteous, answer narrowly, and if asked to unlock, provide access only to the clean profile," advises Basualdo.
Potential Consequences for Travellers
The stakes for non-compliance are high. Any evidence of criminal conduct or being deemed a national security threat can lead to arrest, deportation, and the total loss of flights, accommodation, and precious match tickets. With the World Cup fast approaching, taking proactive steps to prepare your digital footprint is as crucial as packing your team's shirt.
