When someone asks to search your phone.

A phone search raises more than one legal question.

For an ordinary arrest, Riley v. California establishes the general rule that police need a warrant to search digital information on a seized phone. Exceptions and the circumstances still matter. A border inspection is a different legal setting, and a demand to unlock a device raises additional questions.

If you do not consent to a search, you can state that calmly. Do not physically resist, lie, or obstruct an officer. Whether an officer may proceed without consent depends on the legal authority and facts; your refusal does not itself resolve that question.

Ask whether you are free to leave. If detained or facing a demand you do not understand, request legal help. A general article cannot determine what a court order requires or what consequences a refusal may have for your situation.

Choose the guidance that matches the encounter.

• International entry and travel from Puerto Rico: distinguish border inspection from domestic travel.
• Passcodes, biometrics, and device preparation: understand why technical protection and legal authority are separate.

Sources: Riley v. California (2014) · ACLU: stopped by police. This is general education, not legal advice. Seek counsel for an actual encounter.

Save a source you can reach when needed.

ACLU Puerto Rico's know-your-rights resources provide local context. The EFF border-search resource hub addresses the separate risks at international entry. Check the date and scope of any guide before relying on it.

If a device is taken, ask for a receipt and information about the agency, point of contact, and return process. Keep a factual record of the encounter when safe to do so and seek legal advice. Do not delete or alter evidence in response to a legal demand.

Prepare a way to reach an emergency contact without relying entirely on the device being inspected. A printed number can be useful when the phone is unavailable.