Photo: Screenshot of the website of the Chinese Embassy in the US.

The Chinese Embassy in the US released a notice on Monday saying a number of Chinese citizens have reported being interrogated for long periods at the US border customs and had their phones and laptops checked when departing the country. Some people revealed that their electronic devices were temporarily confiscated for further inspection.

The embassy reminded Chinese citizens, especially those studying in the US, to be aware of regulations regarding entry and exit of the country to avoid any inconvenience or losses.

Under US law, US border customs enforcement officers have the authority to inspect all people entering or leaving the country, including their personal information and belongings, without a search warrant, said the embassy.

US border agents can search a traveler's cell phone and other electronic devices even without cause of suspicion, and can conduct a deep search of their devices or temporarily seize them, according to the law.