Which constitutional amendment protects individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures?

The Fourth Amendment is specifically designed to protect individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. This protection requires law enforcement to have probable cause and, in most cases, a warrant issued by a judge before conducting searches of private property or seizing individuals. The underlying principle is that individuals have a right to privacy in their persons, homes, papers, and effects, and any intrusion by government authorities must be justified and legally sanctioned.

Unlike the First Amendment, which addresses freedoms related to speech, religion, and assembly, or the Fifth Amendment, which encompasses rights concerning criminal proceedings and due process, the Fourth Amendment focuses solely on privacy and the integrity of personal property. The Sixth Amendment guarantees rights related to legal proceedings, such as the right to a fair trial and legal counsel, but does not pertain to searches and seizures. Therefore, the Fourth Amendment is the only choice that directly addresses protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.