A Citizen's Guide to
FBI 'Knocks and Talks'

When federal agents appear at the door, the most prudent response is to say, "Talk to my lawyer." Just ask Zack Bonfilio.

Local law enforcement and the FBI are using a new tactic: the "knock and talk." Pairs of agents are appearing on Americans' doorsteps unannounced, uninvited, and invariably without a warrant, with the aim of gaining access. For what exactly? Information. Visual surveillance. Property searches. And the Fourth Amendment's protections against warrantless searches? Authorities don't seem terribly concerned.

According to the Rutherford Institute, "knock and talk" actions are initiated at private citizens' homes without warning, often in the early morning or late evening. "A 'knock and talk' most often arises from anonymous, unsubstantiated, or hearsay information police possess that alleges illegal activity may be occurring at a particular home."

These surprise visits are now frequently being executed based upon nothing more than anonymous "tips" received by the FBI and other agencies, often because of social media posts.

Zack Bonfilio of San Antonio, Texas, was on the receiving end of such a visit around 10:30 on the morning of February 29. Two FBI agents wanted to ask him questions about his social media activity. .....