When the government evaluates an applicant for Global Entry, they consider two main factors: security risk and the likelihood of customs violations. The program grants 'trusted traveler' status, offering expedited airport security and immigration procedures. This means less scrutiny, no need to remove shoes or liquids, and bypassing body scanners.
However, certain aspects of one's history can result in denial or revocation of Global Entry status. For instance, a conviction for driving under the influence within the past decade is flagged as a risk. Violating customs rules can also be problematic; even purchasing a counterfeit Starbucks mug online could lead to disqualification.
An individual recounted their experience with such a scenario: "A few years back - maybe 4 or so, I purchased a cup (a Starbucks Stanley tumbler but before the Stanley craze) from an online marketplace, Mercari. I waited for it for a few weeks; it never showed up so I opened a case with Mercari and they refunded me. About a month or two after the purchase I received a paper from customs saying they confiscated it. I brushed it off at the time and thought nothing of it… until a few days ago when my GE application from August was denied for 'prior customs or agricultural violation.'"