China has expanded the authority of its customs officials, who will be authorized to check phones and other electronics for sensitive content. The new rules do not limit the searches to Chinese nationals, indicating that foreign nationals may be targeted as well. Although the policy won’t come into force until July 1, foreign media reports say that checks have already begun in Shenzhen and Shanghai.

Wang Fu-min
FTV reporter
If you’re planning on traveling to China, take note. The Ministry of State Security has amended law enforcement regulations to expand the authority of customs officials, who will soon be able check travelers’ phones and laptops for sensitive content.

The new measure grants the authority to inspect arrivals’ electronic devices. The wording doesn’t restrict the checks to Chinese citizens, meaning that foreign nationals could also be subject to inspections. The policy will officially enter effect on July 1, but foreign media reports that inspections are already being conducted at airports in Shenzhen and Shanghai.

Member of public
There’s no need to worry so much. If they want to inspect it, let them. It’s not like you’ve done anything bad.

Member of public
I’m a little scared. I’m going over in early August. Of course, before going, I’ll have to filter out and delete some things on my phone.

Travel agents report that recent group tours to China have yet to encounter the inspections.

Chen Chien-chin
Travel agent
We sent a group out yesterday. I asked the tour guide if anything had happened, and nothing happened. It was all normal. Their phones were not checked. The new rule’s significance lies more in its announcement and not so much in its actual enforcement.

And the checks could potentially be conducted beyond China. An internet user points out that Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific is viewed as Chinese territory. This could mean that transiting passengers could be searched on board and even arrested, the user said, advising Taiwanese not to fly with Cathay Pacific or stop over in Hong Kong.

Chen Chien-chin
Travel agent
China’s international airports all have military facilities nearby. So it’s best to not take pictures to avoid any unnecessary trouble.

Taiwan’s National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen recently reminded Taiwanese nationals to exercise caution when entering Hong Kong. He urged travelers to make sure their phones don’t contain messages criticizing China, which could potentially be used as grounds for arrest.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Sun to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#台灣新聞 #TaiwanNews #民視新聞 #FTV新聞 #Taiwan