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A newly proposed mandate for World Cup supporters traveling to the United States to hand over personal online account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

Under the plan, tourists from 42 countries—such as 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 past five years. Until now, providing this information was optional.

"These announced plans are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Previous Presidential Directive

The proposal follows an presidential directive issued by Donald Trump in early 2025 that aims "to guarantee that all aliens wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."

Government Response and Justification

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the official stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is merely the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the American people safe."

The representative added, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the recent attack in the capital. This new proposal is consistent with the earlier Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect additional information from foreign nationals applying through the visa waiver programme."