How to Protect Yourself From Phone Searches at the US Border | WIRED

Protecting Your Phone at US Borders: Two Approaches

The article presents two strategies for safeguarding your phone data during US border crossings: creating a dedicated travel phone or preparing your existing phone.

Creating a Travel Phone

This involves creating a "finsta" (fake Instagram account) for travel, to avoid inconsistencies if questioned about social media usage. It's cautioned to not make the device too clean; some casual use is recommended to avoid suspicion. A burner phone is not ideal, as it would limit access to encrypted communication apps like Signal. The phone shouldn't use your usual phone number, a new SIM card is suggested for the trip or use only Wi-Fi.

Modifying Your Primary Phone

The alternative approach involves cleaning up your primary smartphone before travel. This includes:

• Removing old photos and messages
• Cleaning out nonessential apps
• Removing or logging out of apps with main accounts and creating travel accounts
• Removing dating apps and anything related to LGBTQI communities, particularly if at higher risk of a search.

This method requires diligence to avoid missing apps that may expose personal information. Even if data is deleted, cloud backups and connected accounts may still be accessible.