Is “Whole-Body Imaging” the same as Naked Pictures of Passengers?

May 18, 2009 | Posted in: DOT,Security,Travel Tips

That’s what some folks think – that X-ray-type pictures produced by the TSA’s “whole body imaging” technology are the equivalent of a “virtual strip search”. See the picture at left – which illustrated a CNN story. Once again, this is an issue that’s been framed as our security vs. our privacy. The folks over at the TSA say this imaging is “proven technology” that detects metallic and non-metallic threats. Using these images also allows passengers to avoid a physical “pat downs”. As far as privacy is concerned – the TSA points out that the image of the passenger’s face is blurred, and no cameras, cell phones, video or more are allowed near the image. As far as I know, none of these images will ever see the light of day. But, unfortunately, in today’s world, there are instances where privacy is compromised by employees of “trustworthy” institutions – as people like Farrah Fawcett have learned to their sorrow. Meanwhile the imaging machines are used as primary security in just a handful of airports right now – including San Francisco, Las Vegas, Miami and others. But that’s not stopping a group called the Electronic Privacy Information Center which is calling on the Dept. of Homeland Security to suspend the use of these machines for the time being. Readers – care to weigh in?

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4 Responses to “Is “Whole-Body Imaging” the same as Naked Pictures of Passengers?”

1. not for me says:

   May 18, 2009 at 4:55 pm

   I am not sure which I dislike more – the naked pictures – which remind me of the really naked pictures taken for posture screening in high school, or the hands on pat-down that on occasion has turned into a sense of being raped. I had a screener in a small airport in fly-over country ram her wand into my crotch in an effort to make the plastic zipper on my pants respond. After about the 4th time she rammed it into my crotch I offered to remove the pants – she was very angry and suggested she find her supervisor. I requested that she do that – guess I was lucky to to be arrested and charged with treason. In an international airport the screener ran her hands up and down my chest several times and then my back – from my shoulders to my knees – pushing hard against me. I was tempted to ask her if she was having fun – but restrained my self for fear of being arrested. Maybe the naked photo is better – no wand ramming, no hands giving me a breast exam etc-
   so – can I wear my shoes when I step into the “booth” to be virtually undressed? So much money spent for such pathetic results. I do not feel safer- I feel violated in public.
2. Andy says:

   May 20, 2009 at 9:34 am

   The whole thing is an expensive waste
3. It's wrong! says:

   May 21, 2009 at 4:02 pm

   The comment about “privacy is compromised by employees of “trustworthy” institutions” is correct. Unless there are guarantees for the passenger, this is simply wrong. Too much of our privacy is being invaded and the government appears to be doing nothing to correct it.

   Do I like to feel safe when I travel – absolutely but I am concerned about this type of technology for the reasons above. This should be included with a “passenger rights” bill. If released, this should cost both the TSA , the employee and any media should the pics be released and circulated!
4. matt ward says:

   May 31, 2009 at 8:46 pm

   I don’t object to the machines per se, but I DO object to the recent decision to make them mandatory. Up until last month you were allowed to opt for a pat down instead of having a stranger see you naked. Now they are proposing to make these machines mandatory.

   Matt.