A CAT-2 unit in the TSA security checkpoint at SEA.
SEATTLE – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is beginning to use the latest generation of identity verification technology at the security checkpoints at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Travelers departing SEA can expect to see Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) units that use facial matching technology to verify the identity of travelers during the security screening process.
TSA has been using first-generation CAT units at SEA for the past few years. CAT units are designed to scan a traveler’s photo identification, confirm the individual is ticketed for travel, note the type of screening (such as TSA PreCheck®) that the traveler is eligible for and detect counterfeit IDs. The TSA officer visually verified the identity of the traveler using their photo identification.
The new CAT units, referred to as CAT-2, have the same capabilities as the first-generation CAT units, but they are equipped with a camera that captures a real-time photo of the traveler.
CAT-2 units compare the traveler’s photo on the ID against the in-person, real-time photo using facial matching technology. Once the CAT-2 unit confirms a match, the TSA officer will verify and the traveler can proceed to security screening, all without exchanging a boarding pass. TSA officers can perform additional passenger verification if needed.
“TSA officers at SEA are in the process of being trained to use the latest generation of Credential Authentication. Over the next few weeks, travelers departing SEA will begin to see CAT-2 units in use more frequently and they can expect to have the option to verify their identity using facial matching technology,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Washington Greg Hawko. “We are very pleased with the capabilities of CAT-2 and how it streamlines the process for travelers while enhancing security."
Photos captured by a CAT-2 unit are never stored or used for any other purpose than immediate identity verification. Travelers who do not wish to participate in the facial matching process can opt out in favor of an alternative identity verification process. Signage posted next to a CAT-2 unit informs the passenger that participation in facial matching is optional.
CAT plays an important role in passenger identity verification. It improves a TSA officer’s ability to authenticate a traveler’s photo ID while also identifying inconsistencies associated with fraudulent travel documents.
TSA continues to integrate new technologies into its identity verification process. Read more about these programs at www.tsa.gov/digital-id.