Former President Trump's Proposed Plan for World Cup Tourists to Reveal Social Media Activity Described as 'Alarming'

A newly proposed mandate for soccer tournament supporters journeying to the United States to hand over their online account information has been branded "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Submission for ESTA Applicants

Under the plan, visitors from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be obliged to submit information about social media accounts they have held in the past five years. Until now, submitting this data was voluntary.

"These announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are fundamental 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surveillance that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded immediately."

Roots in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The proposal follows an executive order signed by Donald Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all aliens wishing to enter the United States are vetted and screened to the fullest extent feasible."

Government Statement and Justification

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offered context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the United States," the spokesperson said. "It is not a final rule, it is merely the initial phase in initiating a process to have additional measures to keep the public secure."

The spokesperson added, "The department are constantly looking at how we vet those coming into the country, especially after the recent attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to collect further data from foreign nationals applying through the ESTA program."