In an increasingly globalized world, border controls have become a crucial aspect of national security, public safety, and international trade. With the rise of international travel, immigration, and the movement of goods, ensuring that borders are secure has never been more important. This article explores why border controls are essential, the cutting-edge technologies they use, and their ongoing relevance in today’s complex geopolitical landscape.
Why are border controls important?
Border controls are the first line of defence against unwarranted entry into a country, international crime like smuggling and trafficking, illegal immigration and other external threats. They help maintain national safety, especially in uncertain times and on borders with hostile states.
Prevent illegal immigration
Illegal immigration can be a detriment to a state’s economy and can lead to many other issues. Effective border control systems help governments monitor and regulate the flow of people across their borders. This reduces the risk of illegal immigration and facilitates the entry of people with valid documentation and willing to go through proper channels.
Combat human and drug trafficking
Border control systems are a necessity at borders historically used for smuggling drugs, weapons or even people. With proper care and with the use of dedicated technology, authorities can inspect vehicles, cargo and individuals and intercept and prevent criminal activities at the border.
Protect against terrorism
Terrorism remains a terrifying threat in the modern world. One of the most pressing reasons for strong border security is to prevent the entry of individuals linked to terrorism. Through the use of intelligence-sharing and advanced identification technology, border agencies can screen for potential security threats.
Safeguard public health
In light of recent global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, border controls also play a key role in protecting public health by monitoring the spread of contagious diseases and enforcing quarantine protocols. In more drastic cases, borders can be closed to prevent the spread of dangerous contagious diseases.
Facilitate trade and commerce
Border controls are not just about security—they also help streamline the movement of goods. Customs and import/export regulations ensure that trade flows efficiently while preventing the entry of harmful products.
Relevance in recent times
Although globalisation continues to rise and the interconnectivity and communications continue to improve in recent years, there still remain the old issues and threats that have plagued countries and states in the past. Everyday there seems to appear an article about an attempted terrorist attack, large numbers of illegal immigrants and border tensions. These are some of the reasons and events that make border control systems remain relevant.
- United States – Canada border tensions: President-elect Donald Trump proposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico to attempt to stop the flow of illegal drugs and migrants into the US. This complicates the border situation between these countries and makes necessary the modernisation and safeguarding of border control systems.
- The Netherlands’ new border controls: As of December 9, the Netherlands plan to perform border control for six months to thwart “irregular migration” and “cross-border crime”. However, these border control systems will remain largely unmanned due to lacking numbers of personnel. This necessitates the use of advanced technological solutions to maximise efficiency while working with fewer staff.
- European Union/Schengen Area internal border checks: The following countries have extended internal checks at their borders into March-June 2025: Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Slovenia and Sweden. Generally, internal border controls are not allowed in the Schengen Area due to potential delays in traffic and trade. However, they are allowed as a temporary measure. The countries’ decision was met with discontent, for example, by the Polish government, who found Germany’s introduction of border controls “unacceptable from the Polish point of view.”
- Nearly 200,000 illegal immigration crossings on the US-Canada border: The ever growing statistics concerning illegal immigration warrant an even closer look at border policies and border controls. To ensure constant safety of the state, border control systems need to be modernised and manned in larger numbers.
- COVID-19 Pandemic and its consequences: During the COVID-19 pandemic, China implemented strict border control measures, including travel bans and quarantine protocols, to prevent the virus from spreading. This included suspending flights, closing land borders, and using thermal scanners at airports. Many other countries followed suit by implementing similar measures, such as the U.S. enforcing a 14-day quarantine requirement for travelers from certain countries, underscoring the role of border controls in protecting public health.
The technologies powering modern border controls
As threats evolve and new challenges arise, border security has become more sophisticated. Modern border control systems incorporate a wide range of advanced technologies to enhance security while improving efficiency. Some of the key technologies used in border control include:
- Biometric Systems: The use of biometrics—such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris scans—has revolutionized border security. These systems allow border agencies to verify the identity of travelers quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of identity fraud and enhancing passenger throughput.
- Automated Border Control (ABC) Gates: ABC gates allow travelers to self-check-in using biometric data and travel documents, reducing long queues and improving border processing efficiency. These systems are becoming increasingly common at major airports and entry points worldwide.
- Smart Surveillance Systems: High-tech surveillance tools, including drones and satellite technology, are used to monitor borders, especially in remote or hard-to-patrol areas. These tools help detect and deter illegal border crossings, trafficking, and other illicit activities.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning algorithms are used to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately. Border security agencies use these technologies to identify suspicious behavior patterns, flag high-risk travelers, and detect potential security threats in real-time.
- Advanced Cargo Screening: With the increase in international trade, screening cargo efficiently has become a top priority. Technologies like X-ray scanners, gamma-ray imaging, and CT scanning are used to inspect shipments for contraband without disrupting the flow of goods.
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID): RFID technology is used to track goods and passengers in real-time, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of human error. RFID tags are increasingly used to monitor the movement of goods and passengers as they pass through checkpoints.
High-tech solutions for border control – offer by Detective store
Our offer includes highly advanced solutions for effective scanning and testing at border controls, but also in other similar situations. With our diverse range of devices, you are sure to find products that will suit you and your company’s needs.
PHD-01 – portable human detector
The PHD-01 is a portable device that detects the heartbeat of humans and animals. It is used for vehicle inspection as a means to prevent illegal migration and is intended not only for border guards, but also for the police, prison services and the army. It can detect living organisms in just 30 seconds.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Heartbeat detection
- Testing time: 30 seconds
MDS System – heartbeat detection in vehicles and containers
The MDS is a fully mobile or stationary, weather resistant solution for remote detection of persons in vehicles. With a wide viewing angle and high throughput, it is a perfect system to implement in border checks and other similarly sensitive checkpoints.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Heartbeat detection
- No health or environment hazardous
Venator IMS – portable Ion Mobility Spectrometer
The Venator detects drugs and explosives as well as vapours of those substances. With simple operation and highly specialised analytic software, this device is an innovative and reliable solution for detecting illicit substances and border checks, airports, laboratories and industrial environments.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Simultaneous positive and negative ions detection
- Detection of explosives and narcotics
SAS-Hitech-Xpose – manual density meter for contraband detection
The SAS-Hitech-Xpose is a compact, lightweight, durable density meter designed to help border guards and government officials detect contraband hidden in inaccessible areas, such as walls, tires, bulkheads etc. The device is simple and convenient to use and completely safe for the user.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Manual density meter for contraband detection
- Simple and convenient use
Tactiscan – pocket-sized drug detector
The Tactiscan is an incredibly compact and highly efficient narcotics detector capable of detecting opium, cocaine, MDMA, amphetamine and heroin, among others. With the device unlimited tests and mobile connectivity are available, which along with no needed consumables, makes it a great solution for detecting drugs in sensitive areas.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Laboratory screening results
- Analysis without consumables
The future of border controls
As the world becomes more interconnected, border controls will continue to evolve. Innovations in technology, such as biometric passports, blockchain for secure data storage, and predictive analytics for risk assessment, will reshape how countries manage their borders. At the same time, the balance between security and the free movement of people and goods will remain a critical issue for governments and international organizations to navigate. Make sure to stay up-to-date with our product range and our blog to expand your knowledge on this topic!