Travel Advisory for International Scholars from the Office of the Provost
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All members of the Caltech community should be aware that CBP agents have broad authority to search and seize your possessions, including electronic devices, when anyone enters or departs the country. Indeed, CBP does not need a warrant to conduct searches at the border.
If you need to travel internationally, ensure that your devices do not contain any export controlled information or restricted government information. Further, if possible, avoid carrying proprietary data or other information that may be regarded as sensitive such as unpublished data. If this is not possible and you have to travel with proprietary (but not restricted) information, it is recommended that you take measures that ensure preservation of the information and minimize the risk of raising suspicion:
Ensure that all data on your electronic devices is securely backed up;
Caltech faculty may provide a letter prepared on Caltech letterhead with an inventory of presentations, research data and other information that they have authorized the person to carry on their electronic devices or any other media. (A template letter is provided);
If applicable, provide a link to a platform where the data is publicly available or cite the export license authority. For additional guidance on the latter, please contact Adilia F. Koch, Export Compliance Office before traveling with technical data;
Consult with the resources listed below.
If your device is seized, make sure you get a receipt, which should include information about your device and contact information allowing you to follow up. If Customs and Border Protection or law enforcement has seized or confiscated your device, please contact the Office of General Counsel who will engage the appropriate campus personnel to assist you.
