Marketplace All-in-One Travelers aren't big fans of TSA's facial recognition program, report finds
Aug 12, 2025
Joy Buolamwini, President of the Algorithmic Justice League, unpacks the complexities of the TSA's facial recognition program. She discusses travelers' struggles to opt out and the lack of clear communication regarding their rights. The conversation delves into privacy concerns and highlights the societal risks of facial surveillance, especially for vulnerable groups. Emphasizing consent, Buolamwini advocates for collective empowerment and legislative measures to address the growing influence of tech in our lives.
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Opt-Out Is Practically Invisible
- Joy Buolamwini's report found many travelers didn't know they could opt out or were scanned before choosing.
- Signage and procedures fail to enable informed consent.
Agent's Dismissal During Opt-Out
- Joy Buolamwini shared a traveler who refused a scan and was told, 'You must be stupid.'
- People reported being pressured or misinformed that scans were mandatory.
Signage Alone Fails To Inform Travelers
- Joy Buolamwini found signage alone doesn't inform travelers about opt-out options.
- TSA later added opt-out prompts to kiosks, but practical gaps remain.