Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when you go through the airport security?
What if I told you, until the recent, technology used to scan your body not only sought dangerous objects – but revealed much more than you might have imagined? For scanners at the airport, it’s not just your hand luggage that is under control.
The truth behind these X -ray machines with a full body could question you how much privacy you sacrifice in the name of safety. Here’s what you never knew about X -rays with a full body that were once preparation at airports and disturbing revelations that caused.
Who does not love the idea of ​​traveling? Exploring new places and immersion in different cultures is a truly enriching experience. But let’s face it, a long waiting at the airport can make a less pleasant way. With crowded terminals, endless lines and stress of flight catching, it is easy to feel impressed with the whole process.
One of the main problems that had been worrying until recently was the scanners of the whole body. Are you wondering why they have become so controversial? Here’s the reason.
X -ray scanners, once common at airports, revealed more than passengers.
In 2009, after an unsuccessful bombing attempt, which concerned the explosives hidden in underwear, the management of the safety of transport (TSA) of the entire body scanner with reverse technology, marked as “Rapiscan” introduced. These scanners were able to produce detailed X -ray images of passenger bodies.
Problem? People were uncomfortable with scanners because they displayed in detail: “naked” X -ray images. Not only were these scanners invasive, but they also came up with a robust price tag of approximately $ 180,000. A total of 174 machines were installed on at least 30 airports throughout the United States.
The current was instant and stunning, and as a result, the TSA decided to remove these scanners in 2013.
Although the “Rapiscan” scanners are no longer used in the US, the fear and discomfort they have caused still persist in the minds of many passengers.
“I always thought that X -rays could only show bones,” one person said
“That’s why he always pulls me aside?” Another joke.
“Next time I’m definitely going to junk to see what happens,” he added.
“Can you imagine having a TSA trauma staff?” said another one.
TSA later explained why they terminated the contract with Rapiscan and stated: “Given its inability to deploy non-ling-up software to recognize the target (ATR) according to the congress-ordered date in June 2013, it ended part of its Rapiscan contract.”
By June 2013, travelers would only see machines equipped with ATR technology, which allowed faster processing.
According to a TSA researcher and PhD Shawn Malvini Redden, author *107 Pat-Downs *, modern scanners now produce general paintings of the body instead of showing detailed personal scanning of passengers.
With updated machines on millimeter wool and software for personal data protection, TSA officers only see the basic outline of the body. If something unusual is detected, for example, an object in someone’s pocket, the machine enhances the general area for further inspection, such as the item of paper to indicate where to look.
In conclusion, while X -rays with full body, which were once used at airports, have caused considerable controversy, the aim of the transition to technology has focused on the solution of security needs and passengers. The current against the invasive nature of the “Rapisc” scanners was clear, which caused the TSA to retire and introduce machines with automated target recognition (ATR) and millimeters technology.
These changes have been made to protect privacy and efficiency, which ensures that passengers are represented only as general outlines. The process may not be perfect, but emphasizes the permanent balance between security, privacy and comfort in our increasingly complex travel environment.
Finally, while technology is developing, the most important thing remains to ensure that the travel experience is the safest and hassle as possible for all participants.