Originally Posted by
SeriouslyLost
The basic rule with CBP is that if they don't have probable cause then you don't have to give them access to anything in particular. You generally do have to answer questions, but only in so far as it helps them determine eligbility to enter the US.
From the Immigration Policy Center of the American Immigration Council:
http://www.immigrationpolicy.org/jus...gents-overview
Authority to Search
At Ports of Entry
Under the Fourth Amendment, searches of persons arriving at U.S. ports of entry and personal effects in their possession, including computers or other personal devices, are reasonable per se. Thus, CBP agents do not need to obtain a warrant or have reason to suspect an individual is engaged in illegal activity before performing a search.
The above statement matches what I've always heard/read about the powers of the Border Patrol. What is your source for saying they need probable cause?