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A recently unveiled mandate for World Cup supporters traveling to the US to hand over their social media account information has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

According to the proposal, visitors from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to submit details about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this information was optional.

"These announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right to privacy are universal human rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "This policy creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded immediately."

Roots in an Earlier Executive Order

The plan stems from an executive order signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that seeks "to guarantee that all aliens seeking admission the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree possible."

Official Statement and Reasoning

A representative for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided clarification on the issue. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the spokesperson stated. "This is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the American people secure."

The representative further noted, "We are continuously evaluating how we vet those coming into the country, especially after the recent attack in Washington DC. This new proposal is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens applying through the visa waiver programme."