Can I opt out of TSA's new facial recognition software? What TSA says
The TSA is expanding its use of facial recognition technology at U.S. airports, prompting questions about whether travelers can refuse to participate. The agency has addressed the opt-out question directly, though the program's growing rollout has drawn scrutiny from travelers and privacy advocates.
Why this matters: Yes, you can technically opt out. But most people do not know that, and the TSA is not rushing to advertise it. Airports are busy and stressful, and when a camera is pointed at your face, most people just comply. That is how optional becomes normal becomes expected. Facial recognition at checkpoints is not a small thing. It is the government building a biometric record of where you travel and when. The opt-out exists. Whether it stays easy to use as the program grows is the thing worth watching.
Who should care: Privacy officers · Cybersecurity · General readers · Policy
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