I’m confused. Can’t you just buy the phone in Canada and switch your sim over to it.
I seriously doubt every cbp agent is going to start checking everyone’s phones
Takes 5 seconds to check. Settings > General> About.
So many Americans want to avoid an extra $500 or $1,000. Why wouldn't CBP check? It's the pretty much the only thing being talked about in the news.
CBP can be further motivated by getting a percentage of the proceeds.