POLITICS

US proposes five-year social media checks for travelers

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

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Sources: 6

60-Second Summary

WASHINGTON U.S. Customs and Border Protection published a Federal Register notice this week proposing that Visa Waiver Program travelers provide five years of social media history and additional data, including certain biometrics, as mandatory elements of ESTA applications. The agency opened a 60-day public comment period on the proposal, which implements an executive order on national security and would affect roughly 40 countries participating in the program. DHS and CBP described the move as a screening enhancement; implementation timing and specific collection methods remain pending for consideration. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

About this summary

This 60-second summary was prepared by the JQJO editorial team after reviewing 6 original reports from Yonhap News Agency, The Korea Times, BNN, San Bernardino Sun, The Hans India and Pakistan Observer.

Timeline of Events

January: White House executive order directs expanded vetting for national security.
Throughout 2020: Administration increases monitoring and screening of international travelers and immigrants.
Early December: Some outlets report related proposed travel restrictions following a domestic security incident.
Dec. 10: CBP posts Federal Register notice proposing five years of social media and additional high-value data for ESTA.
Dec. 2020 onward: 60-day public comment period begins; agencies will review responses before final rulemaking.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

U.S. national security and law enforcement agencies will benefit from expanded digital screening capabilities, gaining broader access to travelers' social media and biometric data to inform risk assessments and investigations.

Who Suffered

Visa Waiver Program travelers, including tourists and business visitors from roughly 40 countries, will face increased privacy intrusions, longer application processes, and potential travel denials based on social media content.

Expert Opinion

After reading and researching latest news.... U.S. agencies propose requiring five years of social media data and additional identifiers for Visa Waiver travelers; CBP issued a Federal Register notice with a 60-day comment period. The proposal targets ESTA applicants from roughly 40 countries; implementation details and safeguards remain currently pending.

Media Bias