Spark

Do you have to give up your passwords at the border?

Know your rights.

This story first aired in March 2015.

Two recent news stories have raised questions about Canadians' rights when it comes to personal technology and crossing borders. Are Canadians returning to Canada required to reveal their device passwords during a customs search? If you are a Canadian traveling to the US, are you within your rights to refuse to give up your password? Steven Penney is a law professor at the University of Alberta who specializes in criminal procedure, evidence, and technology and law.

CBC story about the Canadian doctor and his family denied entry to the US.

CBC story about the Quebec man who was charged with obstructing border officials.