Naked Body Scanners Scrapped By TSA

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) plans to end its contract with Rapiscan Systems, whose airport body scanners stirred controversy because they produce a naked image of travelers that pass before their screens.

Fox News reports that privacy rights activists have complained about the TSA scanners conducting a virtual strip search since they first debuted in the nation’s airports in 2007. Activists argued that strip searches without any substantial need violate basic human rights, regardless of the means.

Due to Rapiscan’s inability to develop non-imaging Automated Target Recognition (ATR) that complies with the Congressional mandate, the TSA terminated its contract, the agency said on its website. The TSA scanners will be pulled from service by June.

Fox reports that the agency plans to use a scanner that is considered less invasive, and which makes a generic image that has been likened to a cartoon, or stick figure, yet able highlight any potential foreign object on the traveler's body.

If you or a loved one has experienced a privacy violation, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you.

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