11 seconds ago 2009-11-10T09:30:03-08:00
Most people remember what their SAT score was, and if you've bought or refinanced a home in the last five years or so, you probably have a pretty good idea what your FICO score is. Add to that list another score you'd like to know but probably never will.
According to an International Herald Tribune report, the U.S. government has been quietly assigning scores to international travelers based on the risk they may pose as terrorists or criminals. The practice has been going on for four years. Travelers don't have access to the information and can't dispute it.
The program, known as Automated Targeting System (ATS), was disclosed by the Department of Homeland Security in the Federal Register last month, setting off new controversy over civil liberties and a call from some senators for more scrutiny over such programs. Apparently, ATS was intended for cargo screening, then was expanded to include the screening of people.
How do you know if you've been scored? The IHT piece said ATS computers assess travelers' itineraries, where they are from, how they paid for tickets, their motor vehicle records, past one-way travel, seating preference and, in an Inspector Clouseau-meets-James Bond touch, what kind of meal they ordered.
So, the next time you're traipsing through the airport with the feeling that you're being watched, relax. There isn't a darn thing you can do about it (well, except write your senators), and you'll probably never know one way or the other.
Write to Barbara Correa at bboydstoncorrea@yahoo.com.
