Computer Economics Asserts That Improved Airport Security Does Not Need to Compromise Privacy

Business Wire, Nov 1, 2001

Business Editors & High-Tech Writers

CARLSBAD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 1, 2001

As efforts to improve airport security in the United States are examined, the use of information technology to integrate multiple sources of personal data on travelers into a security background check application are attractive alternatives.

"These applications can be built in a way that does not compromise the privacy of innocent citizens," said Michael Erbschloe, vice president of research for Computer Economics and coauthor of "Net Privacy: A guide to developing & implementing an ironclad e-business privacy plan."

"Passenger screening can certainly be enhanced by providing security personnel with access to records from multiple law enforcement agencies around the world as well as information on travel patterns which may be available in the databases of airlines," said Erbschloe. "However, openly providing security personnel with personal information about private citizens is a gross violation of privacy and will end up being just another nightmare."

"Properly applied, profiling methods could alert security personnel with information on individuals that are considered a security risk," said Erbschloe. "The key is to establish a set of criteria that can be applied to criminal records searches, immigration data, and known travel patterns and thus alert security personnel at airports."

"While it is reasonable to use information technology to identify and track terrorists, it is NOT reasonable to provide airport security or law enforcement personnel with a tool that could potentially be turned into an instrument of harassment, spying or eavesdropping on innocent citizens in the United States or any other country," said Erbschloe.

"Any technology that is employed to improve airport security must be implemented with strong policies and procedures that prevent the abusive use of this technology," said Erbschloe. "This can be done in ways that will benefit public safety, but it can also be done in ways that will victimize innocent people, and that I find totally intolerable," said Erbschloe.

About Computer Economics

Computer Economics is an independent research firm specializing in helping business decision-makers plan, manage, and control technology costs through advisory services, analyst support, and innovative advisory Web sites. Based in Carlsbad, Calif., Computer Economics serves information technology users around the world.