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A recently unveiled requirement for soccer tournament fans traveling to the US to hand over their social media account information has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Travelers

Under the plan, visitors from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to submit information about online accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Previously, providing this data was voluntary.

"These announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," said Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "The measure introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The plan follows an presidential directive issued by former President Trump in January that aims "to ensure that all aliens seeking admission the United States are vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible."

Official Statement and Justification

A representative for the border agency provided clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the United States," 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 keep the public secure."

The representative added, "The department are constantly looking at how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in Washington DC. This new proposal is in line 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 foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."