If you ever needed proof that big brother is out there, read this article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080801/tc_nm/usa_security_laptops_dc_2
I have heard rumors of this happening and full blown denying by the DHS. It now appears that not only where they lying about it, but they have zero probable cause.
When I learned about the bill of rights I understood the Fourth Admendment to protect us from this sort of action by the US Government and all of it’s representatives.
If at anytime you needed to write your congressperson, now is the time.
In the short term, I recommend you encrypt your hard drives with something like TrueCrypt and put all your sensitive data on an IronKey.
If this is not addressed and recognized as an illegal act and a violation of the Bill of Rights it will only be a short time before the DHS is allowed to enter your homes and search everything without a warrant.
Please pass this on to everyone you know. Do not allow us to loose our civil liberties!
