Advanced Imaging Technology Off To a Great Start
Since 2009, officers operating advanced imaging technology (AKA “body scanners”) have found all sorts of things on passengers. Some of these items have been smaller items such as a three inch pocket knife hidden on someone’s back, little packets of powder, a syringe full of liquid hidden in someone’s underwear, and other small items either intentionally hidden or forgotten. These finds demonstrate that imaging technology is very effective at detecting anomalies and can help TSA detect evolving threats to keep our skies safe.
Some might wonder what kind of damage small items could do to a plane since we’re looking for threats such as explosives. At first thought, you would probably think “not much,” but in addition to explosives, we’re also looking for bomb components, among other threat items. There’s more to a bomb than the explosive (timers, initiators, switches, power sources, etc.).
Since our machines can detect such small items, I feel it’s important to remind passengers that when going through AIT screening, be sure to take everything out of your jacket, pants and shirt pockets. And unlike before with the walk through metal detector (magnetometer), wallets and other stuff you didn’t need to take out before will have to come out so we can get a clean image. And that goes to the folks who tuck stuff in their socks too. Making sure you get all the items out of your pockets will get you through the machine much more quickly without secondary screening and will allow the lines to move faster.
This post highlights that AIT is detecting potential threat items concealed under clothing and its deployment is helping to keep travelers safe by improving security at our airports.
As of yesterday, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is the latest airport to roll out Advanced Imaging Technology.
We’ve talked about this technology on the blog many times and you can read all of the AIT related posts here.
***Update - 4/21/2010***
We wanted to clarify that the ceramic knife in the image used for this post was discovered during the pat down of a passenger who opted out of AIT.
Thanks,
Blogger Bob
TSA Blog Team
Labels: advanced imaging technology, backscatter, Blogger Bob, millimeter wave
posted by Blogger Bob at
1:20 PM
Subscribe in a reader
87 Comments:
Pocket knives are not more dangerous than other knives, metal scraps and any other sharp object easily obtainable within the secure area. If you can´t hold up more than one person at a time with a weapon, it is not a threat to an airplane.
The amount of powder shown and a liquid filled syringe can pass through security easily by not being on the persons body surface. A bag that big would go unnoticed in a carry on or could be placed in body cavities, in the mouth or between skin folds. The only reason a person would put it on their body is because they are junkies hiding their stash. That does not make them a threat to an airplane.
Whole body scanners do not detect explosives.
Oh yes, and please explain what you did with all the images of maxi pads you saw. Ignoring them leaves a huge loophole in security, doesn´t it? Did you inspect all menstruating women??
April 20, 2010 2:25 PM
How can we ensure that our wallets are safe while being virtually strip-searched?
April 20, 2010 2:26 PM
Blogger Bob said:
"There’s more to a bomb than the explosive (timers, initiators, switches, power sources, etc.)."
And all the items listed above can also be part of everyday objects currently passing through checkpoints everyday.
Do you really believe anyone trying to smuggle the parts you listed couldn't get them through a checkpoint in their carry-on bag?
April 20, 2010 2:30 PM
Bob,
I noticed that the article doesn't actually mention the knife that is shown. A metal detector or X-ray would have easily found the knife.
Are you trying to be a bit deceitful by showing the knife?
April 20, 2010 2:33 PM
And the reason the TSA prefers bxr to mmw is ...?
Once that is settled, then we can move on to the issue of how much of what you found is actually a danger to a flight, but you are putting us in harms way when you use bxr when completely safe mmw is available.
April 20, 2010 2:35 PM
Bob, does the fact that TSA is finding these items indicate that people only started carrying them when virtual strip-searches started, or that people carried them for years before virtual strip-searches with no ill effects on any flight?
How many harmless items, like private medical devices, have these items detected?
How are alarms that are the result of a harmless medical item like a prosthetic breast or adult diaper resolved?
Is TSA tracking the number of harmless items that alarm the virtual strip-search devices?
What steps is TSA taking to secure the belongings of individuals it virtually strip-searches?
What steps is TSA taking to ensure every passenger knows they are not required to be virtually strip-searched?
How many countries force every air passenger to remove their shoes for screening?
April 20, 2010 2:37 PM
"Anonymous said... Pocket knives are not more dangerous than other knives."
Most officers and HQ peeps would agree with you.
This is one that the critters on the hill have to fix. TSA can't just decide they are okay.
April 20, 2010 2:38 PM
Bob, is the knife shown in the image with this post one that was detected by a virtual strip search device?
April 20, 2010 2:38 PM
Anonymous said... Bob, I noticed that the article doesn't actually mention the knife that is shown. A metal detector or X-ray would have easily found the knife. Are you trying to be a bit deceitful by showing the knife? April 20, 2010 2:33 PM
------------------------
Hi Anon. It's a plastic knife. Not a toy, but an actual durable pointy plastic knife that can do some major damage. Why is it plastic you might ask? It's made for folks who need/want to get a knife past a metal detector.
Thanks,
Blogger Bob
TSA Blog Team
April 20, 2010 2:43 PM
Bob, why does this post open with a picture of a large knife when the only knife you can claim to have found is a three-inch pocketknife that can harm no one?
April 20, 2010 2:44 PM
"Why is it plastic you might ask? It's made for folks who need/want to get a knife past a metal detector."
Bob, are you claiming that this knife was found by a virtual strip search? If so, why no mention in the post? If not, why post the photo?
April 20, 2010 2:47 PM
"It's made for folks who need/want to get a knife past a metal detector."
YES OR NO, BOB: Was this knife discovered by a virtual strip search?
April 20, 2010 2:51 PM
Bob, how are virtual strip search alarms resolved?
April 20, 2010 2:51 PM
Blogger Bob said:
"It's a plastic knife. Not a toy, but an actual durable pointy plastic knife that can do some major damage. Why is it plastic you might ask? It's made for folks who need/want to get a knife past a metal detector. "
Can it do more damage that scissors or knitting needles that are allowed through?
April 20, 2010 2:51 PM
Because applesauce and cottage cheese for a 93-year-old elderly woman leads to TERRORISM! Big brother must CRUSH the applesauce revolution!
http://cbs2.com/local/Woman.Accused.Of.2.1643774.html
April 20, 2010 2:55 PM
Bob,
Can you show us the results of false positive alarms with these machines, and how they are handled? Unless you can prove that false positives are rare and can be resolved quickly and unobtrusively, I can´t accept a "layer of security" that is ethically questionable and seems to bring little help in terms of real safety (as commented by all the persons above).
April 20, 2010 2:55 PM
So let's see. You are telling us that you found several small items, none of which were an actual threat to the aircraft, while showing a picture of something you didn't find. To me, this is nothing more than an unconstitutional dragnet. I know that I will never personally submit to being strip-searched simply to board a flight. I am hoping to get some congressional representation in November who will support my bid to disband the TSA in its entirety, to return airport security to what it was pre 9/11, and to put the resources we are wasting on this agency into programs that might actually make a difference, such as FBI infiltration of terrorist groups, etc.
April 20, 2010 3:09 PM
WHAT PROVISIONS ARE BEING TAKEN FOR WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER PROSTETICS? WILL THEY BE ASKED TO REMOVE?
ANONYMOUS LB
April 20, 2010 3:24 PM
Oh, yeah, this post really proves why these machines are worth over half a billion dollars. Nice job, TSA.
April 20, 2010 3:33 PM
Interesting. I like that it can pick up things like that - I've wondered about bomb-makers 'miniaturizing' their stuff. Not too thrilled about having to take every last thing out. Gah. I guess there's NO way to make this painless, is there?
April 20, 2010 3:45 PM
How many children have been virtually STRIP SEARCHED by TSA employees?
April 20, 2010 3:51 PM
Bob, since the TSA is now requiring that I give up my wallet before going into the nude-o-scope machine, what hope have I of protecting it? Given how many thefts occur at checkpoints, isn't that more or less allowing anyone to steal the property of others? I can't imagine that a TSO would think good things if I were to try to move, make noise, or leave the nude-o-scope machine if I saw someone trying to leave with my property.
April 20, 2010 4:34 PM
Winstonsmith wrote:
"So let's see. You are telling us that you found several small items, none of which were an actual threat to the aircraft,..."
Thank you, winstonsmith, for making that important observation.
Bob, until you can come back to us and tell us that you found an item that can bring down an aircraft, please stop with your crowing, because it just make you and TSA look like fools.
April 20, 2010 4:36 PM
Sigh..........still waiting for an answer to this question.
Do AIT scanners show any detail of a woman's labia, breasts or a man's penis?
April 20, 2010 5:20 PM
The post states:
Some of these items have been smaller items such as a three inch pocket knife hidden on someone’s back, little packets of powder, a syringe full of liquid hidden in someone’s underwear, and other small items either intentionally hidden or forgotten.
Questions:
1)The knife in the post is 9 inches but the pocket knife concealed on someones back is a 3 inch pocket knife. Was the 9 inch plastic knife found by a strip search scanner?
2)Was the packet of powder found chemicals to an explosive or something non-life threatening? Was it intentionally hidden or forgotten?
3)Was the liquid in the syringe found a deadly chemical or liquid detonator? Or was it a legitimate drug for an existing medical condition?
April 20, 2010 5:53 PM
Come on, I've got to leave my wallet unattended now? I don't trust fellow passengers or the TSA agents to not steal it. The entire process is becoming a bigger pain and isn't making us one bit safer. Come on guys, spend the time and energy catching bad guys BEFORE they get to the airport.
April 20, 2010 5:58 PM
About the thieves working for TSA, how will you be able to keep them from making off with your wallet while you've surrendered it for a thorough going through?
April 20, 2010 7:14 PM
Quote from your post:
This post highlights that AIT is detecting potential threat items concealed under clothing and its deployment is helping to keep travelers safe by improving security at our airports.
My that is one heck of a sentence.
Where are the potentional "threat items" that were found?
How am I safer at the airport by the use of these machines? You mean to tell me that at airports that do not have AIT, that I am not safe?
Improving security? So before AIT, the TSA now admits that we were less safe? And once again, what about airports without AIT? We are less safe there?
The government is bent on forcing this technology down our throats if we want it or not. It will not make anything safer, in fact it may make us less safe.
What happens next when someone does get something through the AIT? Once it is compromised, it becomes obsolete. Just as the WTMD is becoming, as it cannot detect all threats.
There are many "holes" in the security system. Trying to close one (hiding objects on a persons body that allows detection) with a system full of flaws,is pointless, unless all "holes" are closed.
April 20, 2010 9:32 PM
I can't read these blogs anymore. The sheer ignorance of some of these idiots is sickening. No wonder this country is so messed up.
April 20, 2010 10:21 PM
How TSA protects the flying public:
http://cbs2.com/local/Woman.Accused.Of.2.1643774.html
A judge Tuesday threw out a case against Nadine Hays, who is accused of hitting a TSA agent who allegedly tried to take away her elderly mother's applesauce-
The Transportation Security Administration declined to comment, but said they did review all allegations internally in hopes that agents will learn from them.
......................
Why is it that TSA refuses to meet the public when its employees abuse citizens?
Why were these employees not fired for their actions.
More well trained employees as claimed by Bob!
April 20, 2010 11:08 PM
Anonymous said...
“How can we ensure that our wallets are safe while being virtually strip-searched”
Before going through Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), you can place your valuables inside your bag or at least make sure they are not visible such as leaving it under a jacket. This trick is very common, and is recommended by traveler sites even before TSA used AIT machines.
Tim
TSA Blog Team
April 21, 2010 12:09 AM
Wow, someone in Miami actually tried to sneak a ruler through security.
Great catch, boys and girls, great catch. The Republic is much safer as a result of your efforts.
Ban all rulers!
An Catholic schoolchild can tell you that in the hands of a 92-lb Nun, rulers are definitely instruments of terror!
April 21, 2010 12:20 AM
Bob, your frequent mention of "bags of powder" and syringes suggest that this is really just a dragnet for drugs. As others have stated, there are other ways to get such things through security without detection, yet no evidence of such items being successfully used in an attack on an aircraft.
Also, you really need to address the question of how screeners will resolve false alarms on adult diapers, sanitary pads, and other medical items. You keep writing about how good this technology is, but have failed to answer this simple question.
April 21, 2010 3:01 AM
What measures is TSA taking to ensure that now with the advent of this new screening that REQUIRES the person to remove their wallet that this item will not be a) stolen or b) searched by over eager TSOs (contrary to policy).
April 21, 2010 8:14 AM
The head of a sex crimes unit is busted for what? SEX CRIMES All sex crimes special unit officers are pervs.
(sarcasm)
April 21, 2010 8:57 AM
Here is an idea to protect your wallets and other valuable items. Put them inside your carry-on after you have completed the ID checks. This way they are not just sitting out, they are inside the bag. TSA should not be allowed to go inside your bag until you are standing there, watching them. Just an idea and hope it helps the concerned.
April 21, 2010 9:52 AM
TSA does not care that their policies leave our luggage vulnerable to theft and the insertion of bombs.
TSA will not care about our wallets being stolen.
April 21, 2010 10:16 AM
HappyToHelp said...
Anonymous said...
“How can we ensure that our wallets are safe while being virtually strip-searched”
Before going through Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), you can place your valuables inside your bag or at least make sure they are not visible such as leaving it under a jacket. This trick is very common, and is recommended by traveler sites even before TSA used AIT machines.
Tim
TSA Blog Team
April 21, 2010 12:09 AM
..............
Letting my wallet out of my direct control is a problem.
Could a person just hold their wallet in hand if they choose to be screened by the STrip Search Porno Machine?
April 21, 2010 10:43 AM
"Before going through Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), you can place your valuables inside your bag or at least make sure they are not visible such as leaving it under a jacket."
How far are the strip-search machines located from the bags passengers must abandon in order to be strip-searched?
How is this an improvement over WTMDs, which let people leave their wallets in their pockets, where they belong?
April 21, 2010 11:32 AM
H2H -- That's all well and good, but that doesn't make it any less likely things will be stolen. What's to stop someone from walking off with a bag or a jacket? Come on now.
April 21, 2010 11:42 AM
Why is it so hard for TSA blog staff to answer simple yes/no questions? Was the knife pictured in the post found by the nude-o-scope (or whatever the heck you're calling it these days) or was it not? Answer the question.
April 21, 2010 12:03 PM
Um, I can just take a knife from the table at one of the nice restaurants in the "sterile zone". Why would I have to smuggle one through security?
April 21, 2010 12:07 PM
"Don't put valuables in suitcases".
"Put wallets in carry-ons"
"Carry your ID at all times."
"Keep posession of your passport/boarding pass at all times"
"Empty your pockets..."
Hrmm.. Catch-22 much, TSA?
The goal of terrorism is to force your opponents to change. Congratulations! We Lost!
April 21, 2010 12:12 PM
***Update - 4/21/2010***
We wanted to clarify that the ceramic knife in the image used for this post was discovered during the pat down of a passenger who opted out of AIT.
(The knife is ceramic, not plastic as I had stated earlier)
Thanks,
Blogger Bob
TSA Blog Team
April 21, 2010 12:25 PM
Regarding your update:
What ceramic knife in which photo?
No ceramic knifes are shown.
April 21, 2010 12:26 PM
Bob, why did you choose to include a photo of a knife that was not detected by a strip-search? What's the name and contact information for your direct supervisor?
April 21, 2010 12:48 PM
The knife in your picture is the Silent Agent ABS Dagger by Grey Eagle.
ABS is plastic, not ceramic.
And just what does the photo have to do with the article and AIT anyway?
April 21, 2010 12:52 PM
Blogger Bob said...
***Update - 4/21/2010***
We wanted to clarify that the ceramic knife in the image used for this post was discovered during the pat down of a passenger who opted out of AIT.
(The knife is ceramic, not plastic as I had stated earlier)
Thanks,
Blogger Bob
TSA Blog Team
--------------------------------
Thank you for your prompt response. Now I have another question: Knowing that this knife was not detected by the nude-o-scope, what reason could you possibly have for prominently displaying it in a post touting the nude-o-scope's ability to find such items? Is it really worth over half a billion dollars (in this year alone!) to find 3" pocket knives, syringes, and powdered narcotics, none of which poses a threat to air travel? If this device is really needed in order to detect small, concealable, non-metallic bomb components, why don't you show us some images of the small, concealable, non-metallic bomb components that you have found?
Until you do so, I will assume that your screeners have not actually intercepted any such items. Perhaps the reason is because attempted terrorist attacks on commercial aviation are extraordinarily rare. Is there anyone who seriously believes that A) competent terrorists are being caught by the TSA and B) the TSA is not rushing to publicize this information?
(Incidentally, to all those who say that we have to invest such a ludicrous amount of money in airline security because the economic impact of even one attack would be so economically disastrous, I have one question: why is no one discussing pouring several billion dollars into systems that will prevent the eruption of volcanoes? After all, this would appear to be as feasible (or infeasible) a proposition as your apparent belief that we can prevent a successful attack on commercial aviation.)
April 21, 2010 1:12 PM
"Could a person just hold their wallet in hand if they choose to be screened by the STrip Search Porno Machine?"
Seems very reasonable. How about it?
April 21, 2010 1:16 PM
I noticed that the article doesn't actually mention the knife that is shown. A metal detector or X-ray would have easily found the knife.
__________________________________
Sorry Ceramic items do not set off a metal detector. Ceramic is not metal.
April 21, 2010 1:24 PM
Anonymous said...
Bob, why did you choose to include a photo of a knife that was not detected by a strip-search? What's the name and contact information for your direct supervisor?
----------------------------------
I will second that request. Bob, why is it so hard for you to do what any customer relations professional in any business would be expected to do and provide us with the information we need to register a complaint about your deceptive posts and your egregiously unprofessional tone? People have been requesting this information for months.
April 21, 2010 1:25 PM
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/04/21/scanners.opposition/index.html?iref=allsearch
"Groups ask DHS to suspend full-body imagers"
Maybe things are not so well in the TSA world of STRIP SEARCH PORNO MACHINES!
Response TSA?
April 21, 2010 1:28 PM
YES OR NO, BOB: Was this knife discovered by a virtual strip search?
__________________________________
Why don't you people read the entire post before asking these obnoxious quesions!!! It says at the very end of the post how the knife in the picture was found!!!!!
April 21, 2010 1:28 PM
"Knowing that this knife was not detected by the nude-o-scope, what reason could you possibly have for prominently displaying it in a post touting the nude-o-scope's ability to find such items?"
For the same reason they are rushing to install several hundred machines out to airports for an "optional" procedure - behaviour management. They are hoping that any viewer seeing the knife will associate it with the machines (and believe they are safer because of them), just like they hope by having the machines at every airport, they can eventually make them mandatory (you know, "Well, we have them everywhere and spent a lot of money on them, so might as well make sure they are used").
It's pretty basic stuff they are doing. The only surprise to me is they are doing it so crudely. One of the approaches appears to be the latest popular approach to managing change: ignore the folks who will resist it, because they won't be able to affect the change and will eventually come around (yes, studies have shown this to be true). What can you do? Elect people who *can* make change and are willing to do so - and hold them accountable to it. Contrary to popular belief, government agencies can and do go away from time to time; but they rarely go away by themselves.
April 21, 2010 1:36 PM
"what reason could you possibly have for prominently displaying [a knife]in a post touting the nude-o-scope's ability to find such items"
Yo use fear to mainpulate us.
April 21, 2010 2:08 PM
Blogger Bob wrote:
Since our machines can detect such small items, I feel it’s important to remind passengers that when going through AIT screening, be sure to take everything out of your jacket, pants and shirt pockets. And unlike before with the walk through metal detector (magnetometer), wallets and other stuff you didn’t need to take out before will have to come out so we can get a clean image. And that goes to the folks who tuck stuff in their socks too. Making sure you get all the items out of your pockets will get you through the machine much more quickly without secondary screening and will allow the lines to move faster.
Isn't it ironic that when they introduce new fancy expensive technologies, they claim the technology will make things easier for passengers, but when the technologies are actually implemented, the demands placed on passengers are even more excessive.
Without the virtual strip search, there was no problem leaving your wallet on your person, or having a money belt under your shirt, or having an attached/implanted medical device, or any number of other personal items that are not WEI and that an individual might wish to keep private.
Now, with the virtual strip search, TSA demands that you empty everything, up to and including your SOCKS.?.? And there are anecdotal reports of breast-cancer survivors being loudly harassed in full public view about their prosthetic.
They did this with the puffers too--you were supposed to be able to leave your coat and shoes on since the puffer would detect exposives and the WTMD would detect weapons, but TSA still insisted on x-raying shoes.
And they've done this with the new x-ray machines for carry-on, which were supposed to abolish the absurd war-on-water. But will still have to put up with 3.4-1-1 insanity.
DHS/TSA is completely out of control. The scope and magnitude of their power trip is astonishing.
April 21, 2010 2:46 PM
Anonymous said...
Bob, why did you choose to include a photo of a knife that was not detected by a strip-search? What's the name and contact information for your direct supervisor?
April 21, 2010 12:48 PM
........
You expect honesty and integrity from TSA?
Now that really makes me laugh!
April 21, 2010 3:21 PM
Great Job TSA. Keep up he good work! I for one enjoy the friendly faces at the airport and people that can actually speak the English language. Yes not everyone is happy with new rules and proceedures. If it will stop an inflight incident it is worth all of the hassel.
April 21, 2010 3:38 PM
"How many countries force every passenger to remove their shoes for screening?"
I flew out of Mexico last week and 100% of passengers were required to remove their shoes before they could board the aircraft.
So far I've flown out of 2 different countries and had to remove my shoes at 100% of them. So in my experience, the answer to your question is "100%".
April 21, 2010 3:58 PM
Bob, why did you choose to include a photo of a knife that was not detected by a strip-search? What's the name and contact information for your direct supervisor?
__________________________________
I'm serious, you people need to find better things to worry about and to do with your time! I don't even know what else to say. And you wonder why there is never a follow up on your complaints. Really! Because Bob's boss does not have time to deal with annoying, childish complaints!
April 21, 2010 4:12 PM
"Why don't you people read the entire post before asking these obnoxious quesions!!! It says at the very end of the post how the knife in the picture was found!!!!!"
It says that in an update that was only posted after multiple comments pointed out Bob's attempt to mislead. Those "obnoxious questions" forced a rare moment of near-honesty.
April 21, 2010 4:35 PM
Is the pictured knife from a real TSA search? As a business own and a frequent traveler, I am a big supporter to the more restricted security search. however, I also worry about my personal privacy as well. I agree with someone else said, let us hold the wallet while being searched is a good idea.
April 21, 2010 4:39 PM
Anonymous said...
Why don't you people read the entire post before asking these obnoxious quesions!!! It says at the very end of the post how the knife in the picture was found!!!!!
----
Why don't you read the comments and the post before realizing that the question was asked on 4/20, and the explanation was added as an update on 4/21?
This begs the question, Bob: Since the knife was not found via WBI/AIT/etc., why is it being used to headline a post touting the benefits of the system? Seems very misleading to me.
April 21, 2010 5:50 PM
I noticed that the article doesn't actually mention the knife that is shown. succesfull..
April 22, 2010 2:58 AM
For those of you wanting to know the name of Bob's supervisor, you can find it in the thread entitled "TSA gets serious about social media" at FlyerTalk in the Travel Safety/Security forum.
Will this post see the light of day here, Bob, or are you going to censor it?
April 22, 2010 7:32 AM
Bob, you first claim that the knife pictured is plastic, then later claim it is ceramic. So which is it Bob?
Regardless the item was not found by WBI PORNO STRIP SEARCH MACHINES.
Shouldn't the picture be deleted from this thread since it is not only misleading but also off topic to the discussion?
April 22, 2010 9:51 AM
RB said...
Letting my wallet out of my direct control is a problem.
Could a person just hold their wallet in hand if they choose to be screened by Advanced Imaging Technology?
You're allowed to hold your valuable items as an option over your head when you step through the machine.
Watches and wallets are given a quick visual check IN FRONT OF YOU to make sure they're not tampered with.
April 22, 2010 11:11 AM
I'm cutting and pasting from a question I answered last year.
Do I have to divest my wallet prior to being screened by AIT?
Your wallet must be divested prior to AIT screening so we can screen its contents via the X-ray.
We also need to be able to determine you have nothing on your person while being screened in the AIT.
If you choose to keep your wallet on your person, you will be referred for additional screening and your wallet will receive a physical inspection. The additional screening is not a threat or a punishment for not divesting, it's just security protocol.
It's always a good idea to place your wallet in one of your bags or a coat pocket. It reduces the chances of it being separated from your belongings. Also, you can request to have your property stay in your view.
April 22, 2010 3:37 PM
What steps is TSA taking to secure the belongings of individuals it virtually strip-searches?
April 22, 2010 4:04 PM
How many harmless items, like private medical devices, have these items detected?
How are alarms that are the result of a harmless medical item like a prosthetic breast or adult diaper resolved?
Is TSA tracking the number of harmless items that alarm the virtual strip-search devices?
April 22, 2010 4:05 PM
Blogger Bob said...
I'm cutting and pasting from a question I answered last year.
Do I have to divest my wallet prior to being screened by AIT?
Your wallet must be divested prior to AIT screening so we can screen its contents via the X-ray.
We also need to be able to determine you have nothing on your person while being screened in the AIT.
If you choose to keep your wallet on your person, you will be referred for additional screening and your wallet will receive a physical inspection. The additional screening is not a threat or a punishment for not divesting, it's just security protocol.
It's always a good idea to place your wallet in one of your bags or a coat pocket. It reduces the chances of it being separated from your belongings. Also, you can request to have your property stay in your view.
April 22, 2010 3:37 PM
............
If going through a WTMD there is no requirement to surrender ones wallet.
Why the difference with STRIP SEARCH SCREENING?
Given that I have to place my wallet in control of potential TSA criminals if I chose WBI screening seals the deal to refuse that form of screening.
April 22, 2010 4:17 PM
Why do I have to request my property stay in my view? That seems like such common-sense it should be policy, unless policy continues to be to have TSA employees pilfer and steal (which makes the grade for national news often enough to be fairly common in reality).
Also, what threat to aircraft do junkies' personal stashes pose? TSA employees are not law enforcement and have no authority from congress to act as such.
April 22, 2010 4:43 PM
What about that TSA employee or FAM or whatever they are called who was arrested for rape in Seattle allegedly committed while wearing his badge and sidearm?
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2011663160_airmarshal22m.html
Who is the real danger to the public?
April 22, 2010 5:43 PM
"Why do I have to request my property stay in my view? That seems like such common-sense..."
Why does our luggage have to be vulnerable to theft and planting of bombs?
April 22, 2010 6:15 PM
8675309 said...
"How many countries force every passenger to remove their shoes for screening?"
I flew out of Mexico last week and 100% of passengers were required to remove their shoes before they could board the aircraft.
So far I've flown out of 2 different countries and had to remove my shoes at 100% of them. So in my experience, the answer to your question is "100%".
April 21, 2010 3:58 PM
..............
Headed to the Us were you?
TSA requires other countries to comply with TSA requirements when going to the US. Fly domestically or to any other country and the procedure changes.
April 22, 2010 6:41 PM
Bob,
That can't be a cut and paste. You only started calling whole body scans AIT recently, when you found out it sounded less likely to remind people that it is a virtual strip search.
April 22, 2010 7:05 PM
RB said..
If going through a WTMD there is no requirement to surrender ones wallet.
Why the difference with STRIP SEARCH SCREENING?
-------------------------------------
I think because it gives the operator a clearer image of the body. The wallet might be blocking something that is hidden on the body.
The AIT is like a full body pat-down made easy. And, you do have to take out your wallet when you get a full body pat-down. It has to go through the x-ray even if it does not have any metal in it.
So, the taking out the wallet isn't just unique to the AIT.
April 22, 2010 8:20 PM
If we the TSA wants to to be more like the Israelis then why are they rolling out AIT technology that Israeli security specialists know is ineffective?
http://www.canada.com/news/airport+security+scanners+waste+money+Israeli+security+specialist/2939730/story.html
April 22, 2010 10:53 PM
Bob, I heard over and over for 2 years that the strip search machines had absolutely no capability to store or send images.
Now a privacy advocacy group (through a freedom of information request) has discovered the machines DO have the capability of storing and sending images.
Did the TSA spread a lie to the taxpayers for 2 years about these machines?
DO NOT tell me "oh yea, but that is just for training." NO capability means exactly that!
A simple yes, or no will suffice; did the TSA implement a successful 2 year campaign to deceive the American public?
April 22, 2010 11:21 PM
Anonymous said...
“H2H -- That's all well and good, but that doesn't make it any less likely things will be stolen. What's to stop someone from walking off with a bag or a jacket? Come on now.”
Here are some tips from eHow. You can also read how to protect your stuff in midair.
In my previous post, I am just recommending what I do when I travel. Your welcome to fellow these tips if you would prefer.
Tim
TSA Blog Team
April 23, 2010 2:02 AM
My standard practice was to put my wallet in my carry on when I divest, but keep my cash, photo ID, credit card, and boarding pass on my person. That way, I don't alarm the WTMD and if my carry on goes astray at security, I've still got the basics I need to continue my journey.
However, if I'm required to put my money, ID, etc. in my carry on while being put through the WBI/AIT/whatever and my carry on goes astray, I've got nothing.
I can't prove my identity to the TSA, though they demand that a citizen produce their "papers" on demand. Also, I can't prove my identity to LEO's, who are programmed to regard a person without ID as "suspicious". Highly ironic, to say the least.
Why doesn't the TSA have some containers available at these scanners, so a citizen can put critical items there while being scanned? All the TSA needs is a few plastic bowls from the dollar store.
Mark
qui custodiet ipsos custodes
April 23, 2010 8:32 AM
Bob, at several airports, I've had TSOs start to walk off with my bags for additional inspection before all of my belongings are in one place. Sometimes get the eye roll when I ask them to wait.
Is this professional behavior? I realize that TSA has little regard for the safety/security of my belongings as demonstrated at the checkpoints by TSA employees.
I suspect that the wallet thing might lead to an already edgy passenger going off on one of your over zealous employees - with disastrous results for both the TSO and the passenger. Securing a passenger's belongings should be just as important as making sure they don't have any WEI on them.
Happy passengers make for a good checkpoint experience. Enraged passengers - not so much.
April 23, 2010 8:45 AM
Patrick (BOS TSO) said...
You're allowed to hold your valuable items as an option over your head when you step through the machine.
______________________________
Anybody want to start tracking how often this extremely sensible suggestion is actually allowed by TSOs in multiple airports in real life?
My guess -- the chances of consistent policy rollout by the TSA is slim to none.
April 23, 2010 10:23 AM
I think because it gives the operator a clearer image of the body. The wallet might be blocking something that is hidden on the body.
The AIT is like a full body pat-down made easy. And, you do have to take out your wallet when you get a full body pat-down. It has to go through the x-ray even if it does not have any metal in it.
So, the taking out the wallet isn't just unique to the AIT.
April 22, 2010 8:20 PM
...............
Funny, I received a pat down at DFW Terminal A a couple of months ago and did not have to remove my wallet.
More well trained TSA employees or someone talking without knowing?
Besides if the person held the wallet in hand during the screening it would then be equal to the WTMD.
Having to surrender ones wallet to comply with WBI "Strip Search" screening is punitive.
April 23, 2010 11:05 AM
RB said...
Bob, you first claim that the knife pictured is plastic, then later claim it is ceramic. So which is it Bob?
Regardless the item was not found by WBI PORNO STRIP SEARCH MACHINES.
Shouldn't the picture be deleted from this thread since it is not only misleading but also off topic to the discussion?
April 22, 2010 9:51 AM
----------------
It was found because of the WBI scanner. If the passenger would have walked through the scanner it would have been found. He decided not to go through it and recieved a pat down instead therefore still finding the knife. If he went through a WTMD he would not have alarmed and would not have recieve a pat down resulting in the knife going through. Therefore the WBI scanner is responsible for finding the knife.
April 23, 2010 12:05 PM
TSOWilliamReed said...
RB said...
Bob, you first claim that the knife pictured is plastic, then later claim it is ceramic. So which is it Bob?
Regardless the item was not found by WBI PORNO STRIP SEARCH MACHINES.
Shouldn't the picture be deleted from this thread since it is not only misleading but also off topic to the discussion?
April 22, 2010 9:51 AM
----------------
It was found because of the WBI scanner. If the passenger would have walked through the scanner it would have been found. He decided not to go through it and recieved a pat down instead therefore still finding the knife. If he went through a WTMD he would not have alarmed and would not have recieve a pat down resulting in the knife going through. Therefore the WBI scanner is responsible for finding the knife.
April 23, 2010 12:05 PM
....................
Aren't people subject to pat down even if they do not alarm the WTMD?
And why wouldn't a BDO pick up on a person hiding a hand weapon while being screened?
April 23, 2010 12:28 PM
TSOWillianReed said:
It was found because of the WBI scanner. If the passenger would have walked through the scanner it would have been found. He decided not to go through it and recieved a pat down instead therefore still finding the knife. If he went through a WTMD he would not have alarmed and would not have recieve a pat down resulting in the knife going through. Therefore the WBI scanner is responsible for finding the knife.
No.
The TSO who discovered the knife is responsible for having discovered it. This knife never appeared on the WBI/AIT/Nude-e-scope screen.
Faulty reasoning.
April 23, 2010 12:28 PM
Post a Comment
Links to this post:
Create a Link
<< Home