TSA Brings CAT-2 Kiosks to Montana

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced the deployment of its latest Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2) at five major airports in Montana. Airports in Bozeman, Billings, Great Falls, Helena, and Missoula have begun offering the CAT-2’s facial recognition technology to streamline the identity verification process for travelers.

CAT-2 units, a more sophisticated version of the TSA’s first-generation CAT units, are designed to match a real-time photo of each traveler with the photo on their ID, providing an efficient and secure method of identity confirmation during security screening.

CAT technology has been a part of TSA’s security measures for several years. Initially, the first-generation CAT units scanned travelers’ photo identification and confirmed that they held a valid ticket. However, TSA officers were responsible for visually verifying the traveler’s identity. The introduction of CAT-2 units, equipped with cameras, enhances the process by using facial matching technology to instantly compare the ID photo with the live image.

“We are pleased with the capabilities and performance of the CAT-2 units in the identity verification process,” said TSA Federal Security Director in Montana Kc Wurtsbaugh. “Travelers departing any of the five airports in Montana where this technology is in use will see signage posted reminding them that participation in the facial matching process is optional.”

Notably, the CAT-2 units do not store photos; images are used solely for immediate verification purposes and are promptly discarded.

CAT-2 deployments have been ongoing across the U.S. Earlier this month, Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Vermont introduced CAT-2 units at its main security checkpoint, and Spokane International Airport (GEG) in Washington state began rolling out CAT-2 units at both its A/B and C security checkpoints.

Source: NBC Montana

–

October 15, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith