Concerns about safe travel to the US are growing as government data collection practices intensify. The US increasingly uses data against individuals, detaining or deporting them for free speech or on questionable grounds such as deleted social media content. Since 9/11, monitoring travelers and profiling has expanded significantly, beginning with fingerprinting and leading to the compilation of extensive databases. Recent initiatives have included the collection of social media information, drastically altering the landscape of privacy and safety for those attempting to cross borders.
It wasn't always this way. Border management today is fueled by our data, but government officials want more. They've reportedly detained or deported people based on free speech activities.
Every few years governments ratchet up their ambitions. In 2016, the US Government piloted requesting social media identifiers, adding them to visa application forms.
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