US Customs & Border Protection agents can confiscate anyone's laptop computers or other electronic devices, search them out of the owner's sight and share the device's contents with other federal agencies and even with private groups who would assist with language translation and data decryption. That's according to the Department of Homeland Security, which released a copy of these policies, which the agency says have already been in place for some time. The searches of electronic devices including hard drives, cell phones, iPods, and audio tapes, can apply to anyone entering the country, including US citizens. And agents can search books, pamphlets and other written materials. DHS says it's an effort to prevent terrorism. Senator Russ Feingold called the policy "alarming" and digital privacy and civil liberties groups are also raising concerns. There's also opposition from business groups. Ken Myer is the CEO of the Washington Technology Industry Association, which represents some 1,000 businesses in Washington State. He says the policy could have a chilling affect on companies that conduct business abroad.

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