Border Security and Your Data: Portable Storage Risks

We're continuing the conversation about portable storage and what really happens when your tech crosses international borders

👉 Tag someone who needs to know this before they travel!

In this bonus heroes episode of the Learn Online Security Podcast, Chris Howells joins Tamara Michéle to break down the reality of flash drives, external hard drives, and even drones at customs—what's allowed, what’s inspected, and what could get flagged or denied entry altogether.

We talk password protection, encryption, and why being honest at the border isn’t just polite—it’s essential. If you travel with devices or data, this is one conversation you don't want to miss. 🎧 Smart travel starts with smart security.

💾 Can you bring USBs and hard drives across borders?
🔓 Do you have to unlock password-protected files?
📦 What's the safest way to move sensitive data?

This episode dives into the Canadian government travel advisory and explains how laws change the moment you leave your home country. Whether you're a digital minimalist or a tech-heavy traveller, this is a must-watch conversation about privacy, legality, and personal choice in the age of border surveillance. 🎙️ Featuring real insights from a 2021 Homeland Security presentation for IT professionals.

Has this ever happened to you at a border crossing? Share your story!

The federal government has updated its online travel advice in 2025 to remind Canadians to 'expect scrutiny' from border patrol officers if they travel to the United States.

🎙️ Missed the full interview? Head back and watch it—you’ll get the good stuff we didn’t cover here! https://youtu.be/kcwkkThUiPM

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Tamara Michéle Podcast Host: https://www.youtube.com/@UCNW7n6n7q9GzulfZ8fIW0cg
Website: https://www.learnonlinesecurity.com

*⌚Time Stamps⌚*
00:00:00 What Is Portable Storage?
00:00:18 Common Devices You Might Travel With
00:00:50 Can Border Agents Inspect Your Files?
00:01:24 Do You Have to Unlock Password-Protected Data?
00:02:22 Encrypted Files and Customs: What You Should Know
00:02:58 Best Practice: Shipping Devices Across Borders
00:03:27 Be Honest at Border Crossings
00:04:36 Real Travel Stories & Mandatory Inspections

Independent Fact Check:
Canada warns travelers of US border agents’ authority to search electronic devices
https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/05/world/canada-travel-advisory-us-electronic-devices-intl-latam/index.html

Border fears lead Canadian firms to advise burner phones, clean computers, travel bans
https://financialpost.com/news/border-fears-canadian-firms-burner-phones-travel-bans