Is it SPOT On?
Can Casual Conversation Be Revealing?
The Program is called, "Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques or the SPOT Program" and the TSA introduced it in August 5, 2008. Aside from collecting the various information such as name, address and occupation the TSA is also collecting nationality, hair color, race, eye color and so on. Some folks have accused the TSA of racial profiling.
Is it "racial profiling" or another TSA "failed program?" Can casual conversations be revealing? Is there any value in probing the who, what, where and how behind a person? I believe the theory was good initially but the implementation has probably failed.
I believe that much can be revealed in casual conversations. Whether or not we agree with the TSA's protocol, there are certain benefits to speaking with people. The TSA is now using casual conversations as the latest weapon in the newest screening technique. They want to engage you in conversation to see what you're all about.
You can read more about this pilot behavior-detection program here.
The latest accusation occurred recently when a passenger was returned to the gate for questioning when his flight from Boston to Washington made a U-turn and returned after take-off. According to the Baltimore Sun, "TSA screeners in Boston are reportedly engaging each passenger in "casual conversation" in an effort to detect suspicious behavior." You can read the full article here.
Can wisdom be gleaned from a conversation? I am reminded of a bible verse from the Book of Job 28:12, "But where can wisdom be found? Where does understanding dwell?"
These are tough times and SPOT is just another detection device in the arsenal against our adversaries.
Speaking of Spot, Fox Business News reported that, "Spot Gold Flat As Dollar Steals The Show," and Gold had its worst week since June. Imagine that.Sources:
http://www.baltimoresun.com/travel/orl-travel-troubleshooter-2-091311,0,1876589.column
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/privacy/privacy_pia_tsa_spot.pdf
Published by Michele Starkey
Optimist who enjoys writing, laughing and spreading good news. If I have but one life to live, I hope to make mine memorable. My epitaph will read: she lived, she loved, she left. View profile
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48 Comments
Post a CommentInteresting
Good article Laura Everly
I haven't a great deal of confidence in the TSA programs. Thanks for the info! rcj
Great article! 5*
A very well written and informative article. Thanks!
Wow! :-)
Very interesting and informatiive.
Very true.
Well said. All measures should be taken to keep us safe.
So true!