Trump's Proposed Policy for World Cup Tourists to Reveal Social Media Histories Labeled as 'Alarming'
A newly proposed mandate for World Cup supporters journeying to the United States to hand over their online profile details has been branded "deeply troubling."
Compulsory Submission for Visa Waiver Travelers
Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide details about online accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Previously, submitting this information was voluntary.
"These announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."
He added, "This policy creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is supposed to represent and it must be rescinded at once."
Origins in an Earlier Executive Order
The proposal stems from an presidential directive signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that seeks "to ensure that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree possible."
Government Response and Justification
A spokesperson for the border agency offered clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this front for those traveling to the country," the official said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have new policy options to protect the public safe."
The spokesperson added, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist incident in the capital. This new proposal is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to vet those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."
