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How Does The TSA "Magic Flashlight" Work?

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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 9:14 pm
  #16  
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Originally Posted by ProvRIGuy
Serious question - while inadvisable, is "Step 0" actually illegal? Could I be subject for arrest for "Tampering with a REAL ID" or some such "offense"? And, if so, is that a state or Federal crime?
It wouldn't be federal, but modifying an official document could get you in trouble. You'll have to figure out what the rules are for your state. Something to research....
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Old Aug 22, 2008 | 9:45 pm
  #17  
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Is it okay to modify my official Wonder Woman fan club membership card? It does have my picture on it and it is laminated.
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Old Aug 23, 2008 | 4:02 am
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Last edited by mikeon; Feb 4, 2011 at 6:08 pm
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Old Aug 23, 2008 | 4:40 am
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Originally Posted by Landing Gear
I was at DFW yesterday and I showed them my New York State driver's license. The ID checker shined some kind of light on it for a second or two before letting me go.

The passenger before me, however, had shown an EU (French) passort which got the same "magic flashlight" go over.

What is this light? How is it supposed to work?
Magic batteries I couldnt resist. UV features on the IDs will illuminate under the light. My FCC and FAA license have them also.
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Old Aug 23, 2008 | 9:22 am
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Originally Posted by TheRoadie
Step zero for the truly brave: Write "KHIAI" in black light ink on the edge of the ID first. If they ask, explain that it stands for Kip Hawley is an Inspiration and it's a new secret admiration society and aren't they members yet?!?
Good idea. But mine says "KHIAFI"? How should I explain this?
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Old Aug 23, 2008 | 10:13 am
  #21  
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Where the idea came from

Originally Posted by tsadude1
Magic batteries.
You are correct. The "magic flashlights" work on the magic principle. According to his unofficial bio, Kip Hawley received an "A+" in "Viewing Invisible Ancient Runes" class his third year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Apparition Wizardry. Unfortunately for us, that same year he also got a "D-" in "Explosive Potions of Everyday Water."
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Old Aug 23, 2008 | 11:12 am
  #22  
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Hmm. KHIAFI, Gaddafi, it all sounds very terroristic to me - you're busted!

And, yes, uv flashlights are nothing new - you can even use a filter on a light source to render UV only. I have used an underwater uv flashlight for years for night dives - some critters are easier to find (like scorpions in the desert as well) and it is easier to discern healthy form dead coral. (One provider.)

Now they can have their fun, too. And we can say "I've been ultraviolated."

Originally Posted by polonius
Good idea. But mine says "KHIAFI"? How should I explain this?
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Old Aug 26, 2008 | 12:17 pm
  #23  
 
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Originally Posted by polonius
Good idea. But mine says "KHIAFI"? How should I explain this?
Substitute "Fabulous" for the originally intended adjective. Oh! You meant "fabulous" in the first place? How about, uh ... wait for it ... let's try "floobelgasterous"! Yeah that's it - just tell 'em it's kinda like "horrific" but in a good way.
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