Security has been stepped up a notch up for Britney Spears’ latest hearing in the custody battle over her children with ex husband Kevin Federline.

A second weapons screening station has been set up in a Los Angeles court ahead of the Toxic singers appearance on Friday (October 26) morning.

Mobile phones, recording devices and cameras have been banned from the building in a bid to protect the troubled star's privacy.

Officials are also attempting to shut out the media by refusing to allow journalists to gather outside the courtroom.

A court insider tells TMZ.com, "Reporters will have to make other arrangements for their cell phones. Anyone with a phone with them must give it in before they will be allowed past. Individuals who do not have business in the courtrooms will not be allowed to congregate in the hallway."

Keep checking back on Entertainmentwise for more on this developing story.