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08/11/2004 Archived Entry: "NEW, FROM OUR EDGAR J. HOOVER LINE OF ACCESSORIES"

NEW, FROM OUR EDGAR J. HOOVER LINE OF ACCESSORIES

Debra here. The new "TSA Approved SearchAlert Suitcase Lock" was selected as a Best Product of 2003.

"...the TSA have formerly been requiring all bags to be unlocked. And, if they came across a bag that had been locked, they'd have to destroy the lock so as to open the suitcase.

They have now agreed to allow suitcases to be built with special locks, and/or add-on special locks to be used with any suitcases - these locks have a dual keying system. One 'key' (either a physical key or a combination lock) belongs to the owner, and this key or combination has many different variations, so that your key is unlikely to unlock the next guy's suitcase as well as your own. But the second key is a 'master' key that only the TSA has (in theory!) and this master key can open all locks in that series. This means the TSA can now easily unlock and relock your suitcase if it needs to inspect it."

When I first read this, I thought the notation "in theory" in the preceding paragraph was a slam against government. In retrospect, however, it looks like a slam against those Evil Corporations who could use the technology for nefarious purposes. As if pawing through your silkies and delicates is a perfectly legitimate activity.

Posted by Debra @ 12:23 PM CST
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