<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The latest accusations of government intrusion on civil rights comes as Attorney General John Ashcroft (news - web sites) continues a monthlong, nationwide tour to defend a different, sweeping anti-terrorism law adopted after Sept. 11, 2001, which has also been criticized for violating civil rights.

"MISSION CREEP"

Some critics accused the government of "mission creep" with CAPPS II, saying what began as an effort to ensure aircraft safety and national security has been broadened too much.

David Keene, chairman of the American Conservative Union, criticized the government for using the screening program to ferret out common criminals.

"It's clear that CAPPS II will be used for far more than the safety of air travelers," he said. "Is there evidence that somebody who has mistreated their spouse is liable ... to seize an aircraft? I don't know how these two are connected."

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The screening system could also expose passengers to unwanted marketing efforts, said Bill Scannell, whose Web site boycottdelta.org has served as a focal point for criticism.

He said airline reservation systems that collect passenger information may share it with affiliates which could range from car-rental firms, hotels or travel related businesses.

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