World's First Digital Strip Search Law Lands in New Zealand

Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash

I've got some news for you that may change any plans you may have to travel to New Zealand!

As you land at the gates, you better be prepared to hand over your phone at customs or else you could face a pretty steep fine. 

New Zealand's Customs and Excise Act 2018 is the first of its kind in the world, which requires travelers to submit to "digital strip searches" if asked. 

The law, which went into effect this week, allows customs agents to ask for passwords, PINs and encryption keys. 

Anyone who refuses can be fined up to $NZ5000 ($3,200 US), face confiscation of the device or worse, prosecution.  


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