The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is significantly expanding its use of facial recognition technology across U.S. airports, with the system now active at over 250 locations. This technology, part of the Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2) program, is designed to verify a traveler’s identity by comparing their live facial scan to the photo on their government-issued ID. The goal is to enhance security and improve screening efficiency, offering a faster and more hands-free experience for passengers.
The TSA emphasizes that the use of this technology is entirely voluntary, and travelers can opt out at any time to have their ID manually checked by an officer without any recourse. The agency states that photos of U.S. citizens are deleted within 12 hours of verification and that the data is not used for surveillance purposes.
Despite these assurances, the program has raised concerns among privacy advocates and some lawmakers. Critics argue that the technology could lead to a de facto national ID system and that the algorithms may have biases. There have also been reports from travelers who felt pressured by officers to use the technology despite their right to decline. The TSA maintains its commitment to privacy and accuracy, stating that it uses high-performing algorithms and provides on-site signage to inform travelers of their options.
