ACLU: TSA Behavior Profiling Unscientific and Unreliable

ACLU: TSA Behavior Profiling Unscientific and Unreliable

  • Feb 10, 2017

In a blog post on the American Civil Liberties Union’s website, the ACLU says that agents of the Transportation Security Administration use a system of “behavior detection” techniques that are unreliable and unscientific.

ACLU says TSA agents are to look out for people who are yawning, whistling, distracted or late for a flight. TSA calls these behaviors “mal-intent.” Based on these behaviors and a score of many more, agents flag that person for additional screening and questioning.

The ACLU obtained documents through a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit that show that TSA’s techniques and protocols are not rooted in valid science, and could, in fact, lead to an unacceptable risk of racial and religious profiling.

According to the post, the ACLU found five top things in the TSA’s documents. Here’s a summary:

TSA’s own files show that their use of behavior detection is unreliable and unscientific. The TSA turned over many academic and scientific studies that directly undercuts the notions that officers can detect deceit or bad intentions based on people’s behavior with any reliability, especially in a place like the airport.

In 2009, TSA expanded the behavior detection program beyond security checkpoints at airports and enabled “behavior detection officers,” some in plain clothes, to spread throughout the entire airport. Officers were taught to use “casual conversation” to draw information out of travelers.

The TSA overstated the scientific validity of behavior detection techniques in communications with Congress by repeatedly assuring members that the program uses “objective criteria.”

TSA documents reveal details of specific instances of racial or religious profiling. TSA produced records of investigations into alleged profiling by behavior detection officers in Newark, Chicago, Miami and Honolulu. The records highlight which behavior indicators can be used as a pretext for harassing minorities and disfavored groups.

Based on the findings, the ACLU suggests that TSA should phase out the behavior detection program and implement a rigorous anti-discrimination training program for all employees.

Featured

  • AI to Help Resolve Non-Emergency Calls Across Utah and Decrease 911 Caller Wait Times

    The Utah Communications Authority (UCA), which oversees the state’s next generation 911 technology services, recently announced that public safety answering points (PSAPs) throughout the state plan to implement Motorola Solutions’ Virtual Response technology to automate the receipt and resolution of 10-digit non-emergency line calls in Utah with the help of AI. Read Now

  • Report Reveals Local Governments Face Surge in Ransomware Attacks with Minimal Resources

    KnowBe4, the cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, recently released new research highlighting the critical cybersecurity challenges facing state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments. The report details how government organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals while simultaneously facing severe resource constraints. Read Now

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

  • Overwhelming Majority of CISOs Anticipate Surge in Cyber Attacks Over the Next Three Years

    An overwhelming 98% of chief information security officers (CISOs) expect a surge in cyber attacks over the next three years as organizations face an increasingly complex and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital threat landscape. This is according to new research conducted among 300 CISOs, chief information officers (CIOs), and senior IT professionals by CSC1, the leading provider of enterprise-class domain and domain name system (DNS) security. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.