Canada updates travel advice to warn of U.S. border officers’ power to search electronic devices [Video]

The federal government has quietly updated its online travel advice to remind Canadians to “expect scrutiny” from border patrol officers if they travel to the United States.

A website with official advice for travellers heading south was updated with a paragraph about the “significant” discretion officers have when it comes to deciding who enters their country — including the power to search phones and laptops.

“U.S. authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Expect scrutiny at ports of entry, including of electronic devices. Comply and be forthcoming in all interactions with border authorities. If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation,” the website now reads.

Agents with U.S. Border Patrol have long had the power to ask to search travellers’ belongings, but the Canadian government updated its online guidance to include the extra warning this week — a change that comes as the nations’ long-friendly relationship breaks down under the pressure of the Trump administration’s …