Bruce Schneier, a well-known security and cryptography expert, interviewed Kip Hawley, the head of the Transportation Security Authority (TSA). Bruce asks the questions you and I have been asking ourselves as we stand in the security line.
Examples of the Poignant Questions:
Bruce Schneier: By today’s rules, I can carry on liquids in quantities of three ounces or less, unless they’re in larger bottles. But I can carry on multiple three-ounce bottles. Or a single larger bottle with a non-prescription medicine label, like contact lens fluid. It all has to fit inside a one-quart plastic bag, except for that large bottle of contact lens fluid. And if you confiscate my liquids, you’re going to toss them into a large pile right next to the screening station—which you would never do if anyone thought they were actually dangerous. Can you please convince me there’s not an Office for Annoying Air Travelers making this sort of stuff up?
Bruce Schneier: People regularly point to security checkpoints missing a knife in their handbag as evidence that security screening isn’t working. But that’s wrong. Complete effectiveness is not the goal; the checkpoints just have to be effective enough so that the terrorists are worried their plan will be uncovered. But in Denver earlier this year, testers sneaked 90% of weapons through. And other tests aren’t much better. Why are these numbers so poor, and why didn’t they get better when the TSA took over airport security?
And the one we’ve all been dying to ask…
Bruce Schneier: When can we keep our shoes on?
I thought the questions and answers were very informational, although I’m not thoroughly convinced all the procedures are necessary or beneficial. In any case, it helps clear up some of the confusion. Something to think about while you’re waiting in security. Happy travels.