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Canadian Fined For Not Providing Border Agents Smartphone Password (www.cbc.ca)
Reader da_foz writes: A Canadian was reentering Canada when he was arrested and charged with hindering or obstructing border officials. At the time traces of cocaine were found on his bags and he was carrying $5,000 in cash. He provided his smartphone to border agents as requested, however refused to provide the password. Canada Border Services Agency officials asked for Philippon's smartphone and its password. From a report: "He handed over his BlackBerry but refused to disclose the code to access the phone. Philippon was arrested and charged under the federal Customs Act, accused of hindering or obstructing border officials." It is unclear if he provided the password while agreeing to the fine.
Never, ever give out your passwords to any "law enforcement" (the reason for the quotes will be clear)
- It's ridiculously easy to plant evidence on a cellphone or PC;
- Your password can be used later for industrial espionage;
- There is no guarantee that the law officer would really be a law enforcement officer or that he is honest and therefore not going to use your passwords for dishonest activities;
Religion: The greatest weapon of mass destruction of all time
Are traces of cocaine the same as the "we smelled marijuana"? Was the cash found first, then they somehow found some "traces of cocaine"?
SLOWER TRAFFIC KEEP RIGHT
Better be sure whatever you are protecting is worth your life or your freedom because that's what it might cost you.
What you are trying to protect is your freedom. If you're going to lose it one way or another, it seems better to lose it by standing up for yourself.