Department of Homeland Security to Analyze Social Media of Travelers

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is set to examine the social media activity of foreign travelers prior to their entry into the United States. According to a notice published, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is integrating social media details into the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applications. This decision follows an executive order aimed at enhancing the country’s defenses against potential threats.

Specifically, applicants for ESTA will be required to disclose their social media accounts from the last five years. The DHS characterizes ESTA as an automated system designed to assess visitors’ eligibility to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, which seeks to evaluate any potential law enforcement or security risks involved.

This Visa Waiver Program currently permits citizens from designated countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Japan to visit the U.S. for tourism or business for a period of up to 90 days without needing a visa. It’s worth noting that the public will have 60 days to provide feedback on this new CBP proposal.

The White House has expressed that the safety of U.S. citizens is a priority, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the visa issuance process. An executive order signed by former President Trump highlighted the importance of screening foreign nationals to prevent any potential harm to Americans or national interests.

The DHS also indicated that it seeks to identify foreign individuals before they arrive in the U.S., ensuring that those entering do not foster any negative sentiments towards American culture or support known security threats.