5 tips for green card and visa holders to protect phone and data privacy at US airports

By Phong Ngo March 27, 2025 | 03:07 pm PT

Travelers check in for their flights at Miami International Airport in Florida, U.S. Jan. 2, 2023. Photo by Reuters

With reports of green card and visa holders being denied entry into the U.S. over messages found on devices during Trump's immigration crackdown, it's crucial to take steps to protect your phone and data privacy.

Experts cited by The Guardian recommend the following 5 tips to minimize risks:

Decide whether to comply with a phone search

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may request access to your phone or ask for a password.

From an EFF guide: "This presents a no-win dilemma. If a traveler complies, then the agents can scrutinize and copy their sensitive digital information. If a traveler declines, then the agents can seize their devices and subject the traveler to additional questioning and detention."

Those who comply should be prepared for both manual and forensic searches. Declining is a legal right, but it may lead to delays or confiscation.

Turn off your phone and disable biometrics

The EFF recommends powering off your device completely before reaching the border. This could return your phone or laptop to a heightened security state and, as a result, could make it harder for anyone to break the encryption on your device.

Disable features like Face ID or fingerprint unlock, and rely on a strong passcode instead.

Do not wipe your phone entirely

"If you cross the border with no data on your device, that itself can be seen as suspicious," said Sophia Cope, a senior staff attorney at the EFF.

Instead of wiping your device, selectively delete sensitive content while leaving enough data to appear cooperative. Remove unwanted messages, photos, or apps, and clear deleted folders to ensure the files are gone.

Encrypt your device and use a strong passphrase

Make sure your phone is fully encrypted and secured with a passphrase that is difficult to guess, ideally 9–12 random characters or a four- to five-word phrase.

If you are traveling with a work device, discuss data protection with your employer before departure.

Move sensitive data to cloud storage

CBP officers are not authorized to search cloud-based data, Cope said. Storing files on platforms like iCloud or Google Drive and removing them from your device can offer added protection.