TSA tests facial recognition technology to boost airport security

A passenger walks up to an airport security checkpoint, slips an ID card into a slot and looks into a camera atop a small screen. The screen flashes “Photo Complete” and the person walks through — all without having to hand over their identification to the TSA officer sitting behind the screen.

The effort comes at a time when the use of various forms of technology to enhance security and streamline procedures is only increasing. TSA says the pilot is voluntary and accurate, but critics have raised concerns about questions of bias in facial recognition technology and possible repercussions for passengers who want to opt out.

A small sign alerts travelers that their photo will be taken as part of the pilot and that they can opt out if they’d like. It also includes a QR code for them to get more information. TSA's identity management capabilities manager Jason Lim demonstrates new facial recognition technology on April 26, 2023, in Glen Burnie, Md., said there are concerns about bias within the algorithms of various facial recognition technologies. Some have a harder time recognizing faces of minorities, for example. And there’s the concern of outside hackers figuring out ways to hack into government systems for nefarious aims.

Jeramie Scott, with the Electronic Privacy Information Center, said that while it’s voluntary now it might not be for long. He noted that David Pekoske, who heads TSA,that eventually the use of biometrics would be required because they’re more effective and efficient, although he gave no timeline. Lim said the images aren’t being compiled into a database, and that photos and IDs are deleted. Since this is an assessment, in limited circumstances some data is collected and shared with the Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate. TSA says that data is deleted after 24 months.

Technology Technology Latest News, Technology Technology Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

TSA tests facial recognition technology to boost airport securityCritics say they are worried about the facial recognition technology for several reasons, even though the program is voluntary, for now.
Source: cleveland19news - 🏆 70. / 68 Read more »

TSA tests facial recognition technology to boost airport securityCritics have raised concerns about questions of bias in facial recognition technology and possible repercussions for passengers who want to opt out.
Source: PennLive - 🏆 463. / 53 Read more »

TSA tests facial recognition technology at US airports to boost securityThe TSA testing the use of facial recognition technology at 16 airports across the country. Here's how it works as you go through security.
Source: FOX26Houston - 🏆 448. / 53 Read more »

TSA tests facial recognition technology to boost airport securityThe agency tasked with securing America's airports is testing the use of facial recognition technology at a number of airports across the country.
Source: chicagotribune - 🏆 8. / 91 Read more »

Are you who you say you are? TSA tests facial recognition technology to boost airport securityTSA says the pilot is voluntary and accurate, but critics have raised concerns about questions of bias in facial recognition technology and possible repercussions for passengers who want to opt out
Source: denverpost - 🏆 13. / 72 Read more »