CBP will photograph non-citizens entering and exiting the US for its facial recognition database

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is implementing a new policy for facial recognition. This policy allows CBP to photograph non-US citizens entering and exiting the country. The purpose is to address terrorism, document fraud, and overstays. The new system seeks to create a comprehensive database of biometric data and travel records. CBP already collects biometric data upon entry, but the new rule expands this to include exits. These photos will be compared against existing passport photos and live images. The program will generate "galleries of images" for verification at entry and exit. The policy is scheduled to take effect in late December. CBP anticipates a gradual implementation process nationwide. Full deployment at airports and seaports is projected within three to five years. The agency believes this technology will bolster national security significantly.