If you are detained by the police and they suspect you’ve committed a crime, they may ask to see your phone. Maybe they want to read text messages on it to see if there is any incriminating information. Maybe they want to look through your photos and videos.
Whether or not you think you’re guilty, you may not feel comfortable handing a police officer your unlocked phone. Can they make you do so?
They need to have a warrant
No, the police cannot force you to open your phone. They can ask. You can decline.
In many ways, this is similar to when they ask to come into your home and perform a search. As a property owner, you do not have to give your consent. But the police can then go get a search warrant that authorizes them to enter the property.
If you do decline to allow the police access to your phone, their next step may be to get that search warrant. If they do this, you can then be compelled to provide access to your device. But the court has to approve the warrant in advance, so it’s not up to the police officer.
One other important thing to note is that an officer can still take your phone. It may be locked, and they may not be able to look at the data, but they can hold the physical device as evidence in some cases.
Your legal options
Things can get fairly complicated when you are dealing with the police, especially involving evidence and technology. It’s quite important for you to know about all of your defense options if you find yourself in this position.