A traveler alleges he was refused entry to the United States for an unexpected reason.
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has long maintained that those entering the country may have their phones inspected.
The CBP website notes, “CBP’s ability to lawfully inspect electronic devices crossing the border is integral to keeping America safe in an increasingly digital world.”
“All travelers crossing the United States border are subject to CBP inspection. On rare occasions, CBP officers may search a traveler’s mobile phone, computer, camera, or other electronic devices during the inspection process.”
Though these inspections are described as ‘rare’, there are concerns about a rise in such practices. Some travelers are advised to disable their iPhone’s face ID or completely turn off their phones before traveling.
This precaution arises from reports that CBP officers can potentially unlock devices using facial recognition without infringing on constitutional rights.
A recent claim comes from 21-year-old Mads Mikkelsen (not the actor from Casino Royale), who says his phone was inspected.
According to Mads, officers found a meme depicting Vice President JD Vance with no hair and an egg-shaped head, which allegedly led to his denial of entry into the US.
The meme was initially created by X user @DaveMcNamee3000 in October 2024, who humorously promised to ‘turn JD Vance into a progressively apple cheeked baby’ for every 100 likes the post received.
Describing the incident as ‘abuse of power and harassment’, Mads told Mail Online.
“They asked questions about drug trafficking, terrorist plots, and right-wing extremism totally without reason,” he shared with Nordlys.
Mads further claimed he was threatened ‘with a minimum fine of $5,000 or five years in prison if I refused to provide the password to my phone’.
He reportedly was detained at the airport and placed in a cell.
Following these claims, US authorities have denied that the Vance meme was the reason for his denial of entry.
CBP tweeted a rebuttal, stating, “Fact Check: FALSE. Mads Mikkelsen was not denied entry for any memes or political reasons, it was for his admitted drug use.”
The Department of Homeland Security echoed this sentiment on Facebook, stating, “FACT CHECK. Claims that Mads Mikkelsen was denied entry because of a meme are unequivocally FALSE.”
The department clarified, “Mikkelson was refused entry into the U.S. for his admitted drug use. Only those who respect our laws and follow the rules will be welcomed into our country.”