The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency has published a comprehensive guide that informs travelers on how they can choose to opt out of biometric facial recognition technology at airports and other entry points. This move comes as CBP expands its use of facial comparison systems for identity verification at various airports and seaports throughout the United States, in response to growing concerns about privacy from lawmakers and civil liberties organizations.
CBP has already implemented facial biometrics at all international airports for entry processes, known as Simplified Arrival, and at 53 airport locations for exit procedures. The technology has also been extended to 39 seaports and all pedestrian lanes at Southwest and Northern Border ports of entry. Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Diane J. Sabatino, expressed excitement about the expansion of facial biometrics through partnerships with the public and private sectors to strengthen travel security while safeguarding the privacy of travelers.
According to CBP, the use of facial biometric comparison technology has facilitated the processing of more than 540 million travelers and has prevented over 2,000 impostors from gaining entry into the U.S. The agency praises the technology for enhancing the efficiency of existing travel requirements and creating a more seamless, secure, and safer experience for travelers.
The deployment of biometric technology stems from the 9/11 Commission Report, which authorized the U.S. Government to implement an automated system for recording the arrivals and departures of visitors at all ports of entry. As technology has advanced, facial comparison has emerged as one of the most effective solutions for identity verification.
Despite the advantages, CBP recognizes that some U.S. citizens may have reservations about participating in facial photo capture. The agency emphasizes that its traveler identity verification process is not a surveillance program and ensures that cameras and signage are prominently displayed to inform passengers about the technology. CBP also adheres to all relevant privacy regulations, with U.S. citizen photos retained for no more than 12 hours after verification.
The guide released by CBP details the process for travelers who opt out of biometric facial comparison technology. U.S. citizens who prefer not to undergo facial photo capture can request alternative processing, which typically involves a manual review of their travel documents by a CBP officer. This option is available for both domestic and international travelers, providing individuals with a choice in how their identity is verified.
Additionally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website clarifies that participation in the testing of biometric technology is voluntary. Passengers have the option to notify a TSA officer if they do not wish to participate and can opt for the standard ID verification process instead.
In conclusion, the release of the guide by CBP aims to inform travelers about their rights and options regarding biometric facial recognition technology, ensuring transparency and providing individuals with the opportunity to make an informed choice about their participation in these identity verification processes.