Press
Office
U.S.
Department of Homeland Security
December 18, 2009
Contact: DHS Press Office, (202) 282-8010
STATEMENT BY DEPUTY
PRESS SECRETARY MATT CHANDLER ON DHS’ EFFORTS TO ENHANCE DRIVER’S LICENSE
SECURITY
“As expected, a large majority of states and
territories—46 of 56—have informed DHS that they will not be able to meet the
Dec. 31 REAL ID material compliance deadline. As the National Governors
Association has said, the states have made tremendous progress in driver’s
license security but simply cannot fulfill the requirements of REAL ID. That’s
why Secretary Napolitano has supported the efforts of Governors and Congress to
enact PASS ID, which puts states on the path to implementing national standards
for identification documents and will enhance security across the
country.
“In order to ensure that the millions of Americans traveling
this holiday season are not disrupted, DHS is extending the Dec. 31 REAL ID
material compliance deadline. The May 10, 2011, deadline for full compliance
remains in effect, and the Department will continue to work closely with states
to meet this deadline. However, Congress must act to address systemic problems
with the REAL ID Act to advance our security interests over the long term. DHS
is committed to moving forward to implement this key 9/11 Commission
recommendation—just last week, the Department announced the availability of $48
million to states for the Drivers License Security Grant Program, to help
prevent terrorism, reduce fraud, and improve the reliability and accuracy of
personal identification documents.”
###
“When families are prepared, our nation is more
secure. Our security is not comprised solely by the borders we strengthen and
the laws we enforce, but also by the strength and resilience of the communities
we build.” -Secretary Janet Napolitano,
With only a couple of weeks left in 2009, this is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the unique challenges you and your family have faced over the past year, and think about what lies ahead in the new year. By understanding various threats, and knowing how to respond, you and your family will be better prepared for emergencies of all kinds.
During the past few months, the Department of Homeland Security has shared with you a series of family preparedness messages. Review these important tips from 2009 to help keep your family safe and secure:
Ø Create a family communication plan to activate in the event of an emergency. FEMA’s website will help you make a customized plan.
Ø Regarding H1N1, vaccination is the best protection.
Ø Everyone has an important role to play in
improving
Ø To practice and refine your planning, make a preparedness checklist for your babysitter. Remember: You may not be home when an emergency occurs, but your children might.
Ø Review travel tips to decrease the amount of time spent in airport security checkpoints, increase the overall efficiency of airport operations and enhance security.
Ø For more information about the Department’s accomplishments and reforms in 2009 you can read a concise fact sheet and watch the Secretary’s speech and question-and-answer session.
Additional resources for you and your family:
Ø Click here to receive alerts from FEMA during an emergency.
Ø Click here for more information on teaching kids about emergency preparedness.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-10-171
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d10171high.pdf
Press
Office
Dec. 18, 2009
Contact: DHS Press Office, 202-282-8010
NPPD UNDER SECRETARY
RAND BEERS TO HOST CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE RESILIENCY
WEBINAR
WASHINGTON—Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) Under Secretary Rand Beers will host a webinar on Monday, Dec. 21, entitled “Infrastructure Resiliency: The Next Frontier in Homeland Security”—highlighting the shared responsibility of state, local and tribal governments, the private sector and all Americans to secure the nation’s critical infrastructure and key resources (CIKR).
Monday’s webinar will provide current information on the latest tools, trends, issues and best practices related to critical infrastructure protection and the Department’s efforts to build a national culture of readiness and resiliency to a broad audience, including CIKR owners and operators; security, risk and emergency management professionals; educators; and others.
For more information, visit the Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources Learning Series.
Monday, Dec.
21
4:15 PM EST NPPD Under Secretary Rand Beers will host a webinar highlighting the shared responsibility of state, local and tribal governments, the private sector and all Americans to secure the nation’s critical infrastructure and key resources*
* Media wishing to participate must register in
advance for the
webinar.
###
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 21, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 22 pages - 163 KB)
- Due to weather conditions in the Washington, D.C. area, the Critical
Infrastructure Resilience: The Next Frontier Homeland Security Webinar scheduled
for Monday, December 21, 4:15-5:15 PM EST has been rescheduled. The Webinar will
be held January 6, 2010 from 3:00-4:00 PM EST. If you previously signed up to
participate, you are automatically registered for the new time.
Wednesday, January 6, 3:00-4:00 PM (EST)
Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources Learning Series for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 22, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 20 pages - 175 KB)
Congressional Appearances for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
December 17, 2009
- Kelvin Cochran, U.S. Fire Administrator, USFA, FEMA, before the Senate
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Subcommittee on Consumer
Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance
"Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Sounding the Alarm on a Silent Killer"
December 16, 2009
- Acting Assistant Secretary Gale Rossides, Transportation Security
Administration, before the House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on
Transportation Security and Infrastructure Protection
“Has the TSA Breach Jeopardized National Security? An Examination of What Happened and Why”
December 15, 2009
- Under Secretary for Management Elaine Duke, U.S. Department of Homeland
Security, before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental
Affairs, Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal
Workforce, and the District of Columbia
"One DHS, One Mission: Efforts to Improve Management Integration at the Department of Homeland Security"
Inspector General Management Reports for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
OIG-10-23 - The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Process for Authorizing Medical Care for Immigration Detainees (PDF, 32 pages - 603 KB) NEW
Press
Office
December 22, 2009
Contact: DHS Press Office, (202) 282-8010
SECRETARY NAPOLITANO APPLAUDS
PRESIDENT OBAMA’S INTENT TO NOMINATE VICE ADMIRAL ROBERT J. PAPP, JR., AS
COMMANDANT OF THE
“The Coast Guard plays a vital role in protecting our
nation—securing
As Coast Guard Commandant, Papp will lead one of the Department’s largest components—comprised of approximately 42,000 Active Duty men and women and more than 7,000 civilian employees—and oversee Coast Guard functions as a branch of the armed services and a federal law enforcement agency.
Biography
Papp currently serves as Commander of the Coast Guard
Atlantic Area (LANTAREA) and Defense Force East—functioning as the operational
commander for all Coast Guard missions within the eastern half of the world.
Prior to assuming command of LANTAREA, he served as the Chief of Staff of the
Coast Guard in
Papp served as Ninth Coast Guard District Commander from 2004-2006, and was previously promoted to Flag rank in October 2002 and appointed Director of Reserve and Training. His Coast Guard career includes extensive tours on both land and sea including service on six Coast Guard Cutters and posts such as Chief of the Capabilities Branch in the Defense Operations Division; Chief of the Fleet Development Team; and Chief of the Coast Guard’s Office of Congressional Affairs.
Papp graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and
holds a master’s in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval
War College and a master’s in management from
###
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 23, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 21 pages - 157 KB)
Economic Recovery Act of 2009 for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- Recovery data for December 22, 2009 now available.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-10-61
Highlights - http://www.gao.gov/highlights/d1061high.pdf
Winter is an especially dangerous time for home fires, as space heaters, holiday lights and candles get more use – it is no surprise that fires in the home are more common between December and February. The U.S. Fire Administration is part of the Department of Homeland Security, and their Web site has a wealth of information to help make this holiday season both warm and safe:
-
Never underestimate your children’s curiosity about fire. Strongly discourage casual contact with matches and lighters.
-
Have smoke detector on every floor of your home, and test them every month.
-
Sadly, two-thirds of home fires that kill children under age 5 occur in homes without a working smoke alarm.
-
Devise a home fire escape plan and practice it with your family.
-
Change your smoke detector batteries when you change your clocks.
-
Click here to learn about residential sprinkler systems.
-
When traveling, search this database for Hotel/Motel Fire-Safe List.
Resources:
- The U.S. Fire Administration provides informative resources in many formats, including books, pamphlets and DVD's, free of charge.
- Click here for a fact sheet on fire safety for babies and toddlers in multiple languages.
- Click here for kid-friendly projects and information about children and fire safety.
Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please contact support@govdelivery.com.
This service is provided to you at no charge by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Privacy Policy | GovDelivery is providing this information on behalf of U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and may not use the information for any other purposes.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20528 · 800-439-1420
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 24, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 18 pages - 160 KB)
Careers for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Update:
The Cybersecurity Virtual Job Fair is now closed.
Statement by Department of Homeland Security Press Secretary Sara Kuban
Release Date: December 25, 2009
For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
“Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano has been briefed on the incident aboard Northwest Airlines flight #253 and is closely monitoring the situation.
Passengers may notice additional screening measures put into place to ensure the safety of the traveling public on domestic and international flights.
As always we encourage the traveling public to be observant and aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior or activity to law enforcement officials.
We encourage those with future travel plans to stay in touch with their airline and to visit www.tsa.gov for updates.”
Statement by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano
Release Date: December 26, 2009
For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
"I am grateful to the passengers and crew aboard Northwest Flight 253 who reacted quickly and heroically to an incident that could have had tragic results. The Department of Homeland Security immediately put additional screening measures into place—for all domestic and international flights—to ensure the continued safety of the traveling public. We are also working closely with federal, state and local law enforcement on additional security measures, as well as our international partners on enhanced security at airports and on flights.
The American people should continue their planned holiday travel and, as always, be observant and aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior or activity to law enforcement officials.
Passengers flying from international locations to U.S. destinations may notice additional security measures in place. These measures are designed to be unpredictable, so passengers should not expect to see the same thing everywhere. Due to the busy holiday travel season, both domestic and international travelers should allot extra time for check-in."
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 28, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 22 pages - 184 KB)
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 29, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 20 pages - 147 KB)
U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20528 · 800-439-1420
subscribed to Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Update:
New teleconference: "USCIS Website - How is it Working for
You?," January 27, 2010, 2-3 p.m. EST
Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone) for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
System of Records Notices (SORNs) for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.Privacy Impact Assessments (PIA) for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- 287(g) Program Database December 28, 2009, (PDF, 16 pages – 212 KB) The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of State and Local Coordination maintains a database for the 287(g) Program, under which ICE delegates Federal immigration enforcement authorities to state and local law enforcement agencies. The database is used to track the progress of delegation agreements between ICE and state and local law enforcement agencies and the vetting and training of individual state and local law enforcement officers who are candidates for 287(g) authority. ICE is conducting this Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) because the 287(g) Program database collects, uses, and maintains personally identifiable information (PII).
Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) Opportunities for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
subscribed to System of Records Notices (SORNs) for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
New:
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- (Updated) DHS/ICE-004 - Bonds Management Information System (BMIS)
US VISIT
- (Final Rule added) DHS/USVISIT-001 Arrival and Departure Information System (ADIS)
US Coast Guard (USCG)
- (Final Rule added) DHS/USCG-013 Marine Information for Safety and Law Enforcement (MISLE)
- (Final Rule added) DHS/USCG-030 Merchant Seamen’s Records
Retired and Removed Notices
- Notice to retire one Privacy Act System of Records Notice - DHS/OCHCO-001 MAXHR ePerformance Management System of Records now covered by OPM/GOVT-2, Employee Performance File System of Records
- Notice of transfer of a Privacy Act System of Records Notice - DHS/FEMA/NDMS-1 National Disaster Medical System Medical Professional Credentials System of Records now covered by HHS-09-90-0040 National Disaster Medical System Patient Treatment and Tracking System of Records
Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
- December 30, 2009 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 19 pages - 144 KB)
Economic Recovery Act of 2009 for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
New:
- ARRA Weekly Report, December 29, 2009
- Acquisition Professional Career Program (APCP) - Get the skills and training necessary to become a sought-after expert in the field of acquisition.
Careers for U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.
Updated:
|
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|
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(A need for this to change)Several travel firms refuse ID cards as passport
alternative
Published 29 December 2009
Major travel companies say they would not recognize the U.K. ID
cards as alternative to passports for European travel by U.K. citizens; more
problems for the already-mired-in-controversy scheme
The supposed usefulness of U.K. ID cards has been called into question by
news that major travel companies are telling would-be passengers that ID cards
are not valid travel credentials for travel in Europe.
John Leyden writes
that around 1,736 people in Greater Manchester have voluntarily paid £30 for
biometric-based ID cards since a pilot program was launched at the end of last
month. The Home Office said these ID cards could be used for travel in Europe,
as well as being a means of identity in opening up bank accounts and the like.
One ID card pioneer, Norman Eastwood from Salford, was denied passage on a
P&O ferry from Hull to Rotterdam on Saturday after he was told he was not
going anywhere without his passport. Dutch passengers with national ID cards
issued in The Netherlands, by contrast, were allowed passage on the
same journey.
The Home Office told Leyden on Tuesday that it informed P&O and other
international carriers twice about the “U.K. National Identity Card’s design and
security features” in the run-up to the issue of cards. It said Eastwood’s
unfortunate experience was an isolated incident caused by P&O’s local staff
not being aware of the National Identity Card, a gap in knowledge the ferry firm
has promised to plug.
A timely investigation by the Manchester Evening News
revealed, however, that P&O were far from alone in not understanding how
U.K.-issued ID cards can be used as an alternative to passports for travel
in Europe.
Front-line customer service workers at nine major travel firms — including
British Airways, Eurostar, and BMI baby — told MEN reporters posing as would-be
customers that ID cards are no good for travel. Eight of the nine firms
subsequently issued statements saying that their staff had given the wrong
advice but Eurostar remained uncertain. “We are unable to confirm whether the ID
cards are valid on Eurostar at this time,” a Eurostar spokesman told
the MEN.
Two German airlines, German Wings and Air Berlin (both of which run flights
from Manchester Airport), said that U.K. ID cards would not be accepted until
they are officially recognized by the German government.
Only four travel firms quizzed by the MEN — Easyjet, Ryanair, Brittany
Ferries, and KLM — said ID cards were sufficient for travel to Europe.
In a statement, the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) said it remained
confident that the majority of travelers will have no problems using ID cards as
an alternative to passports.
The National Identity Card is a valid document for travel and is as good as a
passport in Europe.
We expect all carriers in the U.K. to accept National
Identity Cards for travel as a legal duty and we are confident that the vast
majority of travelers will have no problems using their Identity Card as a
travel document.
Customers who are concerned or experience problems using their National
Identity Card should call the Identity and Passport Service helpline.
The ID card scheme pilot program that started in Manchester on 30 November
has been expanded into Liverpool. Ministers most recently signed off plans to
expand the scheme, a watered-down version of an earlier, compulsory roll-out, to
the north-west of England and Scotland and Wales starting 4 January. A
nationwide roll-out later next year is expected.
The opposition Conservatives have pledged to scrap the ID
card program if they are elected into government by a general election that must
happen before the end of June 2010.
L-1 Identity Solutions Unveils PIV-TWIC Access Control Reader Device
Designed for Extreme Outdoor Operating Conditions
Additional Indoor, Weatherized and Extreme Condition Devices Also Announced for
Government and Commercial Markets
STAMFORD, Conn.--(Business Wire)--
L-1 Identity Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:ID), a leading provider of identity solutions
and services, today released a series of indoor, weatherized and extreme access
control devices for the commercial and government market. An order has already
been placed for the 4G PIV-TWIC Station Extreme, designed to meet the
specialized needs of ports, military bases and airports. All of the products are
being demonstrated this week concurrent with the ASIS International Conference
in Anaheim, California and at the Biometrics Consortium Conference in Tampa,
Florida in booth #401.
"Our access control solutions can now perform in any operating condition and in
any government and commercial installation," said Robert V. LaPenta, Chairman,
President and CEO of L-1 Identity Solutions. "I am particularly pleased with our
new PIV-TWIC reader, a solution that is a direct response to the need for a more
robust device for securing access to our nation`s ports. Early feedback on the
unit from the field indicates that it is significantly stronger than other
readers under pilot at the ports today and we believe much of the functionality
we offer in the unit today will set a new standard for the industry in the
future."
The 4G PIV-TWIC Station Extreme is ruggedized and can withstand sub zero
climates of -13 degrees Fahrenheit and desert temperatures of 158 degrees. It is
IP 65 certified and capable of operating in severe downpours, ice and snow. The
unit consistently identifies users regardless of finger conditions that may be
wet, greasy, severely dry or cut or damaged. It also includes added security
features such as fake fingerprint detection and anti-spoofing capabilities.
Other key features of the PIV-TWIC Station include:
* Single units read multiple credential types, performing biometric verification
for PIV, TWIC and CAC-EP cards, visitor and transition cards (MIFARE, DESFire).
* Features large 3.5 inch color LCD display screen and can display 2D color
images contained on cards.
* Leverages the latest communication standards with support for Ethernet, PoE
and wireless LAN (WiFi).
* Offers flexible deployment options with single, two- or three- factor
authentication.
* Accommodates MARSEC and threat level security requirements with the ability to
operate in several different modes.
* Provides extensive storage capabilities at the device level for locally stored
hotlists, Certificate Revocation Lists (CRL), event logs, biometric templates
and more.
The Extreme and indoor versions of the 4G PIV-TWIC Station meet Transportation
Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) ICE certification requirements as
mandated by the Transportation Security Administration Authority (TSA).
Other new products available for the commercial market include the 4G V-Station
Extreme for harsh operating environments and two weather resistant readers for
moderate outdoor conditions, the 4G V-Flex WR and 4G V-Station WR.
About L-1 Identity Solutions
L-1 Identity Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: ID) protects and secures personal identities
and assets. Its divisions include Biometrics, Secure Credentialing and
Enterprise Access solutions, as well as Enrollment and Government Consulting
services. With the trust and confidence in individual identities provided by
L-1, international governments, federal and state agencies, law enforcement and
commercial businesses can better guard the public against global terrorism,
crime and identity theft fostered by fraudulent identity. L-1 Identity Solutions
has more than 2,200 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Stamford, CT.
For more information, visit www.L1ID.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and
uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release and those made
from time to time by L-1 Identity Solutions through its senior management are
made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company's
current views based on management's beliefs and assumptions and information
currently available. Forward-looking statements concerning future plans or
results are necessarily only estimates, and actual results could differ
materially from expectations. Certain factors that could cause or contribute to
such differences include, among other things, availability of government funding
for L-1's products and solutions, the unpredictable nature of working with
federal, state and local government customers, and general economic and
political conditions. Additional risks and uncertainties are described in the
Securities and Exchange Commission filings of the Company, including the
Company`s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and the Company`s Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. L-1 Identity Solutions expressly
disclaims any intention or obligation to update any forward-looking statements.
ID-S
L-1 Identity Solutions
Doni Fordyce, 203-504-1109
dfordyce@L1ID.com
Copyright Business Wire 2009
Handheld touch screen device may lead to mobile fingerprint
ID
(A need for this to change)Several travel firms refuse ID cards as passport
alternative
Published 29 December 2009
Major travel companies say they would not recognize the U.K. ID
cards as alternative to passports for European travel by U.K. citizens; more
problems for the already-mired-in-controversy scheme
The supposed usefulness of U.K. ID cards has been called into question by
news that major travel companies are telling would-be passengers that ID cards
are not valid travel credentials for travel in Europe.
John Leyden writes
that around 1,736 people in Greater Manchester have voluntarily paid £30 for
biometric-based ID cards since a pilot program was launched at the end of last
month. The Home Office said these ID cards could be used for travel in Europe,
as well as being a means of identity in opening up bank accounts and the like.
One ID card pioneer, Norman Eastwood from Salford, was denied passage on a
P&O ferry from Hull to Rotterdam on Saturday after he was told he was not
going anywhere without his passport. Dutch passengers with national ID cards
issued in The Netherlands, by contrast, were allowed passage on the
same journey.
The Home Office told Leyden on Tuesday that it informed P&O and other
international carriers twice about the “U.K. National Identity Card’s design and
security features” in the run-up to the issue of cards. It said Eastwood’s
unfortunate experience was an isolated incident caused by P&O’s local staff
not being aware of the National Identity Card, a gap in knowledge the ferry firm
has promised to plug.
A timely investigation by the Manchester Evening News
revealed, however, that P&O were far from alone in not understanding how
U.K.-issued ID cards can be used as an alternative to passports for travel
in Europe.
Front-line customer service workers at nine major travel firms — including
British Airways, Eurostar, and BMI baby — told MEN reporters posing as would-be
customers that ID cards are no good for travel. Eight of the nine firms
subsequently issued statements saying that their staff had given the wrong
advice but Eurostar remained uncertain. “We are unable to confirm whether the ID
cards are valid on Eurostar at this time,” a Eurostar spokesman told
the MEN.
Two German airlines, German Wings and Air Berlin (both of which run flights
from Manchester Airport), said that U.K. ID cards would not be accepted until
they are officially recognized by the German government.
Only four travel firms quizzed by the MEN — Easyjet, Ryanair, Brittany
Ferries, and KLM — said ID cards were sufficient for travel to Europe.
In a statement, the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) said it remained
confident that the majority of travelers will have no problems using ID cards as
an alternative to passports.
The National Identity Card is a valid document for travel and is as good as a
passport in Europe.
We expect all carriers in the U.K. to accept National
Identity Cards for travel as a legal duty and we are confident that the vast
majority of travelers will have no problems using their Identity Card as a
travel document.
Customers who are concerned or experience problems using their National
Identity Card should call the Identity and Passport Service helpline.
The ID card scheme pilot program that started in Manchester on 30 November
has been expanded into Liverpool. Ministers most recently signed off plans to
expand the scheme, a watered-down version of an earlier, compulsory roll-out, to
the north-west of England and Scotland and Wales starting 4 January. A
nationwide roll-out later next year is expected.
The opposition Conservatives have pledged to scrap the ID
card program if they are elected into government by a general election that must
happen before the end of June 2010.
L-1 Identity Solutions Unveils PIV-TWIC Access Control Reader Device
Designed for Extreme Outdoor Operating Conditions
(A need for this to change)Several travel firms refuse ID cards as passport alternative
Published 29 December 2009
Major travel companies say they would not recognize the U.K. ID cards as alternative to passports for European travel by U.K. citizens; more problems for the already-mired-in-controversy scheme
The supposed usefulness of U.K. ID cards has been called into question by news that major travel companies are telling would-be passengers that ID cards are not valid travel credentials for travel in Europe.
John Leyden writes that around 1,736 people in Greater Manchester have voluntarily paid £30 for biometric-based ID cards since a pilot program was launched at the end of last month. The Home Office said these ID cards could be used for travel in Europe, as well as being a means of identity in opening up bank accounts and the like. One ID card pioneer, Norman Eastwood from Salford, was denied passage on a P&O ferry from Hull to Rotterdam on Saturday after he was told he was not going anywhere without his passport. Dutch passengers with national ID cards issued in The Netherlands, by contrast, were allowed passage on the same journey.
The Home Office told Leyden on Tuesday that it informed P&O and other international carriers twice about the “U.K. National Identity Card’s design and security features” in the run-up to the issue of cards. It said Eastwood’s unfortunate experience was an isolated incident caused by P&O’s local staff not being aware of the National Identity Card, a gap in knowledge the ferry firm has promised to plug.
A timely investigation by the Manchester Evening News revealed, however, that P&O were far from alone in not understanding how U.K.-issued ID cards can be used as an alternative to passports for travel in Europe.
Front-line customer service workers at nine major travel firms — including British Airways, Eurostar, and BMI baby — told MEN reporters posing as would-be customers that ID cards are no good for travel. Eight of the nine firms subsequently issued statements saying that their staff had given the wrong advice but Eurostar remained uncertain. “We are unable to confirm whether the ID cards are valid on Eurostar at this time,” a Eurostar spokesman told the MEN.
Two German airlines, German Wings and Air Berlin (both of which run flights from Manchester Airport), said that U.K. ID cards would not be accepted until they are officially recognized by the German government.
Only four travel firms quizzed by the MEN — Easyjet, Ryanair, Brittany Ferries, and KLM — said ID cards were sufficient for travel to Europe.
In a statement, the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) said it remained confident that the majority of travelers will have no problems using ID cards as an alternative to passports.
The National Identity Card is a valid document for travel and is as good as a passport in Europe.
We expect all carriers in the U.K. to accept National Identity Cards for travel as a legal duty and we are confident that the vast majority of travelers will have no problems using their Identity Card as a travel document.
Customers who are concerned or experience problems using their National Identity Card should call the Identity and Passport Service helpline.
The ID card scheme pilot program that started in Manchester on 30 November has been expanded into Liverpool. Ministers most recently signed off plans to expand the scheme, a watered-down version of an earlier, compulsory roll-out, to the north-west of England and Scotland and Wales starting 4 January. A nationwide roll-out later next year is expected.
The opposition Conservatives have pledged to scrap the ID card program if they are elected into government by a general election that must happen before the end of June 2010.
Additional Indoor, Weatherized and Extreme Condition Devices Also Announced for Government and Commercial Markets STAMFORD, Conn.--(Business Wire)-- L-1 Identity Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:ID), a leading provider of identity solutions and services, today released a series of indoor, weatherized and extreme access control devices for the commercial and government market. An order has already been placed for the 4G PIV-TWIC Station Extreme, designed to meet the specialized needs of ports, military bases and airports. All of the products are being demonstrated this week concurrent with the ASIS International Conference in Anaheim, California and at the Biometrics Consortium Conference in Tampa, Florida in booth #401. "Our access control solutions can now perform in any operating condition and in any government and commercial installation," said Robert V. LaPenta, Chairman, President and CEO of L-1 Identity Solutions. "I am particularly pleased with our new PIV-TWIC reader, a solution that is a direct response to the need for a more robust device for securing access to our nation`s ports. Early feedback on the unit from the field indicates that it is significantly stronger than other readers under pilot at the ports today and we believe much of the functionality we offer in the unit today will set a new standard for the industry in the future." The 4G PIV-TWIC Station Extreme is ruggedized and can withstand sub zero climates of -13 degrees Fahrenheit and desert temperatures of 158 degrees. It is IP 65 certified and capable of operating in severe downpours, ice and snow. The unit consistently identifies users regardless of finger conditions that may be wet, greasy, severely dry or cut or damaged. It also includes added security features such as fake fingerprint detection and anti-spoofing capabilities. Other key features of the PIV-TWIC Station include: * Single units read multiple credential types, performing biometric verification for PIV, TWIC and CAC-EP cards, visitor and transition cards (MIFARE, DESFire). * Features large 3.5 inch color LCD display screen and can display 2D color images contained on cards. * Leverages the latest communication standards with support for Ethernet, PoE and wireless LAN (WiFi). * Offers flexible deployment options with single, two- or three- factor authentication. * Accommodates MARSEC and threat level security requirements with the ability to operate in several different modes. * Provides extensive storage capabilities at the device level for locally stored hotlists, Certificate Revocation Lists (CRL), event logs, biometric templates and more. The Extreme and indoor versions of the 4G PIV-TWIC Station meet Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) ICE certification requirements as mandated by the Transportation Security Administration Authority (TSA). Other new products available for the commercial market include the 4G V-Station Extreme for harsh operating environments and two weather resistant readers for moderate outdoor conditions, the 4G V-Flex WR and 4G V-Station WR. About L-1 Identity Solutions L-1 Identity Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: ID) protects and secures personal identities and assets. Its divisions include Biometrics, Secure Credentialing and Enterprise Access solutions, as well as Enrollment and Government Consulting services. With the trust and confidence in individual identities provided by L-1, international governments, federal and state agencies, law enforcement and commercial businesses can better guard the public against global terrorism, crime and identity theft fostered by fraudulent identity. L-1 Identity Solutions has more than 2,200 employees worldwide and is headquartered in Stamford, CT. For more information, visit www.L1ID.com. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release and those made from time to time by L-1 Identity Solutions through its senior management are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current views based on management's beliefs and assumptions and information currently available. Forward-looking statements concerning future plans or results are necessarily only estimates, and actual results could differ materially from expectations. Certain factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, among other things, availability of government funding for L-1's products and solutions, the unpredictable nature of working with federal, state and local government customers, and general economic and political conditions. Additional risks and uncertainties are described in the Securities and Exchange Commission filings of the Company, including the Company`s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and the Company`s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. L-1 Identity Solutions expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update any forward-looking statements. ID-S L-1 Identity Solutions Doni Fordyce, 203-504-1109 dfordyce@L1ID.com Copyright Business Wire 2009
Published 18 December 2009
The FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team wanted to replace the 20-pound rugged laptop plus fingerprint scanner their hostage rescue teams lug around with a smaller and lighter device; NIST researchers develop one
The FBI Hostage Rescue Team had a problem — they needed a small, portable tool to identify fingerprints and faces, but could not get anyone interested in building a solution for such a limited market. So they came to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The FBI told NIST they wanted something more portable than the 20-pound rugged laptop plus fingerprint scanner their hostage rescue teams lug around to aid in their anti-terrorism efforts, and this led to NIST developing a new application for a handheld touch-screen device.
The original task given to NIST by the FBI was simply to design and compile the requirements for the software the FBI needed to run on their platform of choice: a handheld device with a touch screen about the size of an index card. Paring down the visual interface to a mini-screen requires detailed understanding of what functionalities are most important. NIST researchers Mary Theofanos, Brian Stanton, Yee-Yin Choong and Ross Micheals brainstormed with the FBI team about what they required and, more importantly, watched them doing their work since most people can demonstrate what they need far better than they can articulate it.
The research paid off. Despite having worked closely with the NIST team, even the FBI Hostage Rescue Team was surprised at how well the ultimate design matched their needs: a small tool that could take pictures of fingerprints or faces and send the data wirelessly to a central hub for analysis, all with a minimum of touch strokes.
Theofanos, Stanton and Choong wanted to take the program further. Smart phones with touch screen devices were becoming available — could they scale their design down even more to fit a 2-inch x 3-inch screen? The team created a demo program for just such an available screen — and it scaled beautifully.
The NIST team already had been collaborating with other security agencies on something called Mobile ID, a method to help officers identify people quickly and easily on the scene, instead of taking people back to headquarters to be fingerprinted. The NIST researchers think this demo program might just be the solution. The next step is to integrate an actual finger print sensor into the demo program.
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