The Transportation Security Administration's Alert

The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) alert is taking security up a level due to  alarming reports of possible new bomb designs that terrorists can slip into smartphones and laptops. A rule for the TSA to everyone traveling is each electronic device will get screened by security officers, TSA stated.

The Transportation Security Administration's alert means people coming to the U. S. from places overseas have to turn on their cellphones as well as laptops before stepping on the airplane per officials. The TSA will stop people with cell phones from specific airports in the Middle East, Africa and Europe to see if the cell phones and laptops are able to come on or power up.

Travelers should make peace with slower lines while going through security screening. Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices are to be looked at closely according to reports by Reuters. Owners will have to find another method of transportation if a cell phone or laptop does not power up.

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson ordered the TSA to take security to the next level, last week. "I have directed...enhanced security measures," Johnson. TSA will work with foreign governments in regard to the bomb making threat.

Foreign countries do not have the same procedures in place as the U. S. when it comes to traveling via airplanes. Travelers in foreign countries are not screened by TSA. Authorities are trying to curtail the new bomb design from reaching rebel fighters that are in Syria who tend to originate from the West with the necessary paperwork to get on an airplane.

The transportation Security Administration's alert is shared with "foreign allies" plus the "recent and relevant" facts are sent to them. The TSA is aiming for as "few disruptions" as necessary. The new rules does not change what can be taken aboard flights.


Sources:

Reuters
Washington Post
Latimes