The Guardian reports that the US authorities in light of recent cancellations to Washington were scanning lists of passengers for future flights.
This is in blatant disregard of current laws and not even in line with future agreements to be drawn up between the USA and the EU (European Union.) No current or planned data-sharing agreements permit the transfer of data based on a future reservation.
As stated in my report the Illegal US - EU Axis of Surveillance, I would urge European travellers to join the EDRI Campaign against the illegal transfer of European travellers' data to the USA.
I have outlined in the past the risk that passengers' personal data could be misused. Furthermore, without adequate safeguards, as is the status quo, passenger credit card data is at risk. Both credit card fraud and ID theft are fast growing crimes.
A previous article on ID theft: CAPPS II - personal privacy violations increase ID Theft.
And Personal Privacy Breaches: Pressure mounting against CAPPS II.
We all wish to live in a safe world but I am getting tired of reiterating this. If the US Government wants passenger data then they should abide by unilateral agreements and clearly state how that data is going to be used. Secondly, adequate safeguards must be taken to ensure that the data cannot get into the wrong hands. Simple. Blatant disregard merely creates animosity.
It is no wonder that incentives to attract travellers to the USA have been initiated.
