These machines don't do anything to make us safer and are totally ineffective at detecting the threats they were bought to detect. In addition, the backscatter machines emit x-ray radiation at unacceptable levels which will have a cumulative effect on frequent fliers and especially crew members if/when they ever become primary.

They are being used randomly - not just on people who need to undergo extra screening.

The liar 'Nappy' Napolitano stated they will never be primary for screening, but that is likely to change.

You can opt out and refuse to undergo the scanning process. Many airports have signage that spells out your right to refuse the scan and accept a patdown instead - but many airports do not post these signs and many screeners will go out of their way to pressure or bully you into accepting the scan. If so, hold your ground and demand a supervisor, then a manager, then the CO GSC - and keep escalating as necessary. They cannot force you to be scanned.

The one key issue here that is germane to all customers, not just the anti-TSA or anti-scan folks - when you undergo the scan or the patdown, the TSA will likely separate you from the baggage and valuables you put in the x-ray. This is where 90% of your screening stress will come from - as you are either arguing against the scan or getting your patdown, there is a significant amount of time where laptops, wallets or even bags can be stolen, and this is happening frequently.

It is important that while you are arranging for your patdown (or your scan if you want one) that you wait until the screener has either taken your personal belongings from the belt or secured them somewhere where you can see them clearly. Quite often the screener will attempt to turn you away from your items while another screener will sift through your bags and steal valuables or snatch your laptop. Never let your valuables out of your sight, even for a moment.