Increased security: TSA now screening all devices larger than a cell phone

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is now implementing stronger screening procedures for carry-on items. Travelers will be required to remove electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bag and “place them in a bin with nothing on top or below, similar to how laptops have been screened for years. This simple step helps TSA officers obtain a clearer X-ray image.” The new enhanced screening comes after increased fears that electronic devices can pose as homemade bombs.

The program has already been tested in 10 airports and will begin to roll out nationally. However, the new security check does not apply to the TSA Precheck program, meaning that if you pay $85 per year and send in your fingerprints, you can opt out of America’s enhanced airport security measures.

Heightened electronic security procedures come more specifically for international flights coming into the U.S. from primarily Middle Eastern airlines. In March 2017, U.S. aviation security officials banned electronics larger than cell phones in carry-on bags of direct flights to the U.S. from nine airlines at 10 airports overseas.

“Whether you’re flying to, from, or within the United States, TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security by strengthening the overall security of our commercial aviation network to keep flying as a safe option for everyone,” said TSA Acting Administrator, Huban A. Gowadia, in a statement. “It is critical for TSA to constantly enhance and adjust security screening procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats and keep passengers safe. By separating personal electronic items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles for screening, TSA officers can more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror threats.”

Via ExtremeTech and Ars Technica