My girlfriend attempted to check in online for a flight tomorrow through United. I checked in fine, she got the message: "Please see a United Representative at the airport to check-in."

I've read some threads that say this could mean SSSS or it could mean they want to verify her birthday or some other random nonsense. The issue is, my gf has significant issues with getting the "pat down" and had a crying episode where we almost abandoned a flight last time she had to go through this crap. She since has flown a few times with no problems or SSSS issues, so I don't think she's on any list just yet, but this check-in issue obviously concerns us both.

Reading about SSSS, some people say it's the "search the carry on, get wanded, go in the puffer machine" which wouldn't be a huge deal, as long as they don't do the pat down. Is there a distinction between getting the pat down and just "wanded"? What are the chances of this note meaning a SSSS? She's talking about driving instead (9 hour drive...). Thanks for your help.