A sweeping new policy requiring the collection of facial recognition data from all noncitizens entering and leaving the United States went into effect on Saturday.
The policy takes effect as U.S. airports handle a massive influx of holiday travelers. The Transportation Security Administration estimates more than 44 million travelers will pass through airports between December 19 and January 4.
The Department of Homeland Security says the measure is designed to curb visa fraud, identify criminals, detect overstays, and prevent illegal reentries.
