Protecting Privacy is Our Priority
CBP is relentless in its mission to safeguard the nation’s borders and the privacy of all citizens. CBP’s biometric facial comparison technology is hosted within a secure cloud-based environment and does not store biographic data for any travelers. CBP retains U.S. citizen photos for no more than 12 hours after identity verification and only for continuity of operations purposes. CBP enrolls in-scope non-U.S. citizen travelers in the DHS Biometric Identity Management System (IDENT) to verify identity through biometrics.
CBP’s traveler identity verification process is not a surveillance program. Surveillance programs involve cameras that are hidden and out of sight, capturing video of people when they are in public spaces and completely unaware or informed. CBP’s process is transparent and out in the open. Signage in clear language is displayed where all passengers and travelers can see them and stay informed about the process and technology.
CBP’s policies on privacy are transparent. CBP adheres to all applicable DHS policy, legal privacy rules, and regulations. CBP also adheres to the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), which prohibits CBP from conducting or sponsoring an information collection or requiring a person to respond to this information unless a current, valid OMB control number and an expiration date exist.
The OMB control number for CBP’s collection is 1651-0138, which expires on September 30, 2024.
In the end, CBP hopes that travelers will choose to enjoy the many benefits of biometric facial comparison, including the time it saves and how easy and smooth it makes the travel experience.
Opt-Out Provisions
U.S. citizens who do not wish to submit to facial photo capture pursuant to these processes may request alternative processing, which typically involves a manual review of their travel documents by a CBP Officer.
Questions?
If you have any questions related to CBP’s biometrics privacy policy, please email simplifytravel@cbp.dhs.gov.