Why People Think TSA Full Body Scanners Invade Privacy
While some people still argue that full body scanners invade privacy, the current scanners are much less invasive than the old ones. Those were called backscatter machines and some people called them "nude machines." They showed specific detailed images of a person's body. They also exposed passengers to levels of radiation well below safe health standards. TSA removed all backscatter machines from airports in May, 2013.
Current Full Body Scanners
The new full body scanners are millimeter-wave systems. The body image that shows up on the screen is not the particular person's actual image. The technology detects dangerous objects on a generic image. The full body scanner only shows an outline of your body and the outline is always the same no matter what gender you are.
Pat-Downs |
If you choose not to go through the full body scanner you will have to have a pat down by a TSA officer of the same gender as you. You may also be required to be pat down if you trigger an alarm as you walk through the full body scanner. You will be able ask the officer to change his gloves if you like. The officer will also ask you if you have any injuries or tender spots that he/she shouldn't touch. You will be able to ask if you can be pat-down in private but one other TSA agent will have to be with you as well. The officer will feel your whole entire body to make sure there is no unauthorized object. While this method may be more invasive than the full body scanner, it is only used if the passenger chooses it or if the passenger triggers an alarm in the full body scanner.
|