March 18, 2025
Protect Your Social Media and Electronic Devices from Government Scrutiny and Reconsider Non-Emergent Travel
This is a reminder that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of State (DOS) may look at your social media when reviewing your immigration case. They may check your posts, comments, photos, and even your friends list. This means that what you share online could affect your immigration status. Furthermore, your electronic devices (phone, tablet, laptop, etc.) may be subject to search when you seek entry to the U.S. at an airport or land border.
To protect yourself, make sure your social media accounts are private. Go to your settings and limit who can see your posts. Be careful about accepting friend requests from people you don’t know. Also, think before you post—avoid sharing anything that could be misunderstood or used against you. Review your electronic devices and any information that is stored on them – including documents, photos, and other data – even if it is in a “deleted” folder. Customs agents may ask you to provide your passport or other means to unlock your device and may seize the electronic device if you refuse to comply.
Staying careful online and reviewing items saved on your electronic devices can help protect your case and your future.
Our firm strongly advises against any international travel at this time, unless absolutely necessary, as we await the official announcement of a potential travel ban. Traveling abroad could result in significant delays, difficulties reentering the U.S., or even being barred from return depending on new restrictions. Although we don’t expect any travel ban to apply to permanent residents or those with an “immigrant visa” we cannot guarantee that people in that category will not be affected. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.
If you have any specific questions regarding this information, please schedule a consultation to discuss them with one of our attorneys.