Yes, Your Face Is Being Scanned When You Board Airplanes Now

By Robin Burks Leave a Comment

When it comes to flying, there are a lot of rules you need to know in order to travel. There are rules about luggage, of course (for example, most airlines only allow a personal item and a carry-on bag). Then there are rules about liquids (although that could change soon for some).

MCO Airport Security

There’s also an optional rule about biometrics, and yes, you can opt out, but if you do opt in, you’ll have your face scanned. This happens at the TSA security checkpoint, but believe it or not, this can also be something you see when you board an aircraft.

First, let’s talk about what this whole biometrics thing is about. When you get to TSA security, a photo is taken of your face and then compared to the photo on your ID to make sure they are the same. These images are not shared in any databases, and they are instantly deleted.

Spotted at the Orlando Airport

When we recently visited Orlando International Airport recently, we noticed a new sign near our gate, which states that your photo is taken as you approach the gate to board the plane and provided to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The CBP will compare that photo to your ID. Photos will be deleted within 12 hours. If you do not wish to have your photo taken, you can see a gate agent or CBP Officer for manual verification of your identity.

New sign at the airport

Again, keep in mind that this is optional, and if you’re uncomfortable having your photo taken, you can opt out and have your identify verified in another way. We just wanted to give you a heads up if you’ll be traveling soon that if you do opt in, you may have your photo taken twice before your flight.

Stay tuned to DFB for more.

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Do you opt in or out of facial recognition at the airport? Let us know in the comments!