US airport security will throw your phone away if it’s not charged up

If you’re planning on travelling to the US for your holidays this summer, then be warned, because airport security is about to get even more hot and heavy than usual.

According to reports today, airport officials are likely to fondle your tech more than ever before, could even ask you to switch it all on and… here’s the tragic bit… if you run out of battery just before this interrogation, then your beloved mobile phone may not even be allowed on the flight with you and will be thrown into one of those big, soulless bins reserved for pen knives and bottles of water.

This morning the BBC reported that those travelling with direct flights to US airports will experience an intensified screening of their gadgets this summer at international airports, such as Heathrow, after new security measures were introduced last week. Many have speculated that the new measures are in response to a terrorist threat, but that’s yet to be confirmed.

So what should you do if you’re travelling to the US? Well firstly, let’s all stop whining and get some perspective, after all the new measures have been introduced to keep us safer. But secondly, make sure your mobile phone is 100% charged before you go through security, or that totally unplugged holiday you keep telling everyone you need will become a reality. And let’s face it, none of us want that.

The official statement from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) read:

‘During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cell phones […] Powerless devices will not be permitted on board the aircraft. The traveller may also undergo additional screening.’

Although it’s not been confirmed, reports are also suggesting the airport officials are being particularly OTT with Apple and Samsung devices.

Image via Luke ma’s Flickr.