UK airports to get virtual body scanners by 2010
2008-10-13
In just a few years you might be subject to a 'virtual strip search' at UK airports - by state-of-the-art digital body scanning machines designed to increase security and speed through aiport security zones.
Privacy groups have already slammed the idea, suggesting that the machines, which use eletromagnetic wave technology to map travellers' bodies and create a 3D map, are intrusive and amount to a 'virtual strip search'.
This new technology is reportedly being considered for introduction for passengers travelling in the European Union.
You may have already seen the sacanners in action in the US, or during a recent trial period at London Heathrow's terminal four.
The new machines are said to be far more effective than the traditionla 'pat down' security check performed by airport staff.
If the machines are introduced, we will see them at UK airports by April 2010.
