Consumer Electronic Instrument Search and Seizure at International Borders: New Laws Allow Border Agents to Demand Passwords for Digital Devices

Australia and New Zealand have enacted new laws in 2018 that give border agents the right to demand that travelers entering these countries hand over passwords for their digital devices. This most recent development contributes to a global trend toward the unwarranted search and seizure of devices, raising critical questions about individual privacy, data management, consent, and surveillance.