The Fourth Amendment states:
“the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized”.
How the 4th Amendment applies to you:
If you’ve ever been pulled over for speeding or another traffic violation then you’ve probably heard an officer ask, “mind if I search your vehicle” then you’ve seen the 4th in action. The officer wanted to search your car so he needs either a warrant or needs a warrant exception to apply, such as consent. You have a right to refuse that request, you can say No. That is also the 4th Amendment in action.
Don’t let law enforcement threaten, force, coerce, or push you into consenting to a warrant-less search. The only reason an officer would ask to search your car, bag, or house is because they want to find something to arrest you for. If they had probable cause, they would have brought a warrant. Don’t be fooled unless you are six and lost in the park officers are not talking to you because they want to be your friend.
Also consent can be revoked or limited at any time.
Why the phrase ” if you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about” is wrong