Postkontroller

Postkontroller, or postal controls, are measures used within postal systems and by government authorities to detect and deter illegal or dangerous activities carried out through mail and parcel services. The primary purpose is to prevent smuggling and trafficking, enforce customs and tax rules, protect consumers, and uphold safety standards. Postkontroller can apply to both domestic mail and international shipments and may occur at sorting centers, transfer hubs, or at the point of delivery.

Common methods include risk-based screening of shipments, verification of customs declarations, and targeted inspections. Inspections may be physical, with hand search, or supported by technology such as X-ray scanners or imaging equipment. In some cases, authorities use canine teams or collaborate with customs and police to seize prohibited items, seize assets, or refer cases for investigation.

Legal framework and privacy: Postkontroller are conducted under national laws and international obligations. They typically require some form of authorisation, warrant, or regulatory basis. The balance between security interests and privacy is addressed in legal protections, which may require notification to senders or recipients in certain circumstances or limit data handling.

Impact and considerations: They help reduce illegal trade, enforce sanctions, and prevent harm, but may cause delays for legitimate shipments and raise concerns about surveillance and privacy. Public transparency about when and how inspections occur is often debated, as is the proportionality and necessity of the measures.

See also: Customs control, Border control, Mail, Security screening, Privacy.