US bans uncharged cell phones, laptops from some flights

iPhones and Galaxys are reportedly already being heavily scrutinized.

The Transport Security Administration says that security has been stepped up on certain flights into the US. This includes asking passengers to power up their devices.

• If you’re flying into the US from certain countries, you may discover that getting through security will become even more time-consuming and stressful.The US Transport Security Administration revealed on Sunday that enhanced security procedures on flights coming to the US now include not allowing uncharged cell phones and other devices onto planes.In a statement earlier this week, Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said that the new measures were the result of a re-evaluation of measures “to promote aviation security.”There is no official list of which airports are affected. However, the BBC is reporting that London’s Heathrow is one of them.

  Reports suggest that the enhanced measures are in response to information that terrorists in Syria and Yemen have developed bombs that might evade the previous screening processes.

  What’s clear is that personal devices are being targeted. The TSA statement said: “During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted on board the aircraft. The traveler may also undergo additional screening.”