The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated. Amendment Four to the Constitution was ratified on December 15, 1791.It protects the American people from unreasonable searches and seizures. The Fourth Amendment prohibits the United States government from conducting "unreasonable searches and seizures. The right of the people to be secure in their persons houses papers and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated. The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution gives citizens the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution protects citizens' privacy. But cracks in the Fourth Amendment have weakened our personal security. Citizens may not be tried on the same set of facts twice and are protected from self-incrimination (the right to remain silent). (4th Amendment applies to states).