Originally Posted by
Kensterfly
Cool! At least until EVERYONE starts using the app. Then we're back to square one.
Brings up a question, though. Since this app is not operated directly by CBP, just exactly who else has access to your personal information, including passport number? I assume the third party app handlers have access to everything you enter.
Hi,
OK, here's a little explanation that might help.
1) Because the amount of time that the officer needs to spend with you is much less than the time required in the traditional process and because you don't need to wait in line for a kiosk to open up, the Mobile Passport Control process can scale pretty well. More people using it = more lanes in the future.
2) The app, just like the APC kiosks, operates under an agreement between US CBP and airport authority representatives. No personal data is stored by anyone other than the traveler and US CBP. Data is encrypted in transit. In that sense, it is very similar to the way that an airline or travel agency handles your Secure Flight information (name, gender, DOB) as it is forwarded to US DHS. The data exchange is subject to DHS restrictions and requirements.
3) Mobile Passport is designed to complement Global Entry, not replace it. You don't have to stop at the APC kiosks, and there are dedicated lanes for MPC at both passport control and customs. [NOTE: this is still new, so if you encounter something screwy, please let
[email protected] know]. It's ideal for the majority of international travelers who fly overseas a few times a year or less. If you fly a ton internationally or have a name that causes problems with DHS, you will probably prefer Global Entry. Even then, you may find that the GE kiosks are down or backed up or that you are flying with family members who don't have GE. MP is great for those situations.
Please send along feedback and suggestions!