Slashdot Mirror
TSA Airport Screenings Now Start Before You Arrive At the Airport
Bob the Super Hamste writes "The New York Times is reporting that the TSA is now doing background investigations on passengers before they arrive at the airport. The publicly stated reason for this is that it is to streamline the security procedures at airports allowing more passengers to receive less scrutiny while at the air port but this new authority allows the TSA additional information about each traveler. The prescreening that is being performed for domestic travel now uses a simiar standard to that of foreign individuals who where entering the US. The new measures go beyond what is used in the Secure Flight program and while light on details mentions that the passengers passport number will be used. The article does however point out the data sources that are available to the TSA to conduct these pre-screening with such as tax identification number, past travel itineraries, property records, physical characteristics, and law enforcement or intelligence information. Also mentioned is that individuals who do not have a passport will not be subjected to the rules and from my reading will not be eligible for lesser screening at that airport. The stated goal of this program is to have 25% of all airline passengers in the US receive lighter screening at the airport so that they don't have to take their shoes off, remove jackets, or remove laptops from bags. Additionally passengers who are in higher risk categories can receive additional screenings. Also mentioned is that all passengers are currently prescreened and that airlines are required to share your passport data with the TSA if they have it." One thing I've noticed as a passenger is that the most dangerous-feeling aspect of flying right now seems to be the winding security line itself.
"I practically died with joy when I learnt that they'd stop beating me if I'd just get on my knees."
Coward.
I stopped visiting the US (and I used to go semi-regularly on business) once all this TSA shit started. Such a shame other people put their bank account before their sense of decency.
We sure pay a heavy price for our politicians' love of meddling in the Middle East.
Not only that, but no ID was necessary --- I once flew under an alias 'cause I was curious if it could be done --- even got a military ticket discount even though I never showed my military ID card (which had my proper name).
Sphinx of black quartz, judge my vow.
Stopping visits is not the same as running away, matey.
I continue to campaign against similar regressions in my home country, England, which has had a far more significant terror problem, and dealt with it by jaw-jaw.
I stopped visiting the US (and I used to go semi-regularly on business) once all this TSA shit started
Nobody noticed.
Foreign visitors to U.S. hit record in 2011
I don't think I just got a pass for being Canadian. There has to have been more to it than that.
Given how screwed up LAX is (and I know it well) I think that it is more likely that they were trying to balance the load between the US and residents line and the foreigners line.
I am Slashdot. Are you Slashdot as well?
Can't comment on the England having more terrorist issues than the US, but I'll take your word for it.
You're probably young, then. I can remember when the Irish Republican Army was conducting terror attacks in and around Britain.
#DeleteChrome
Foreign visitors to U.S. hit record in 2011
That report talked up a whopping 4% increase in tourism during 2011 as compared to 2010.
It doesn't mention the 7% drop in 2009, give any other historical context, or even mention that in many countries annual population growth exceeds 4%. If you only tell part of the story, you can draw whatever conclusion you like.
You are assuming this is new. It's not. This pre-screening is part of how they make the no fly list. The new part is they are having three groups instead of just two. Those who can't fly, those who are low risk, and everyone else. This will let "important" people opt out of the security theater hassle, while still pretending it makes the country safer.
How many votes did they have for defunding it? 0
Compared to the 397 times they tried defunding the Affordable Care act.
The Tea Party has no interest in preserving freedom.
Do not look at laser with remaining good eye.