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All of these comments seem to be written as though the side effect of trolling federal agencies is everyone being mature, recognizing that you pulled a great joke on them, having a good laugh, patting you on the back and sending you on your way.

Based on prior stories I've read - trolling pissed off people with any form of Authority could end up very very badly for anyone doing this.

Aside from them just out and out confiscating any electronic device they like, they could detain you for a long period of time, they could put you on no-Fly lists (and then good luck ever flying into/within the US again), they could put you on extended screening lists (and so, every time you fly then on - again, kiss goodbye every electronic device you posess every time you travel, again). If you're a foreign national, or even if you look vaguely foreign, you might find yourself deported/denied entry/locked up for a while during the deportation process.

That's before they even get motivated enough to be malicious - I'm sure if they wanted, they could gin up enough of a case of "obstruction" or "wasting police time" if they can find any evidence (or even anything that looks like it could be hint of intention, like posting on HN), which even if it never goes to trial can still make your life a living hell, cost you your job, and a huge amount of money defending.



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