Originally Posted by
mahohmei
I can think of only one reason to prohibit cell phones in Customs: the same reason they're not allowed at the counter at the Post Office. People who talk on cell phones tend to pay attention to nothing else, and they don't want anyone holding up the line, and they don't want to have to compete with your phone for attention when it's your turn.
I actually have objections to such a policy at the post office - if that were law as opposed to a request common courtesy for USPS employees and customers waiting in line.
The legitimate reason why I think cell phones in customs / immigration is prohibited is to prevent communication between passengers who may be conspiring to bring in illegal materials or entering the country illegally. People can scout out which immigration officers or customs officers are lax or clueless and conspire. Although there are other avenues to do it, it's just one layer of precaution.
As much as I don't like government agencies, I support this one - although I may not support how people are treated when it's enforced. Yes: "Sir, please turn off your phone until you leave the processing area. If it's urgent, please let me know your situation." No: "Turn it off now because I say so, citizen."