The [UK] Government is discussing with airport operators plans to introduce a screening system that allows security staff to focus on those passengers who pose the greatest risk.

The passenger-profiling technique involves selecting people who are behaving suspiciously, have an unusual travel pattern or, most controversially, have a certain ethnic or religious background.

The system would be much more sophisticated than simply picking out young men of Asian appearance. But it would cause outrage in the Muslim community because its members would be far more likely to be selected for extra checks.  

MOH recipients and Caucasian widows standing in the TSA line can breathe easier.

Stopping every swarthy-looking 20-something isn’t a kind, gentle or just strategy, but in the world we live in it is a prudent one. Despite what some might have you believe, having someone go through your laptop bag because your name is Abdul is not on par with being sent to an internment camp. “Not every Muslim . . .” and all that, which is why ethnicity is just one factor to consider. You focus on the behavioral profiling for the odd Tim or Jose; the ethnic profiling is for the platoons of Muhammads.

About the Author

Michael Tanji

Michael Tanji spent nearly 20 years in the US intelligence community. Trained in both SIGINT and HUMINT disciplines he has worked at the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, and the National Reconnaissance Office. At various points in his career he served as an expert in information warfare, computer network operations, computer forensics, and indications and warning. A veteran of the US Army, Michael has served in both strategic and tactical assignments in the Pacific Theater, the Balkans, and the Middle East.