Recently Released—New High-Tech Security Product Recommendation Presented in First DMIA (Data Management Improvement Act) Report to the United States Congress on Border Access Security

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, MARCH 31, 2003—New law required that a DMIA Task Force be established to recommend data requirements and procedures that will facilitate the detection of terrorists, criminals, and dangerous cargo at United States airports, seaports and land border crossings. The ultimate goal is to increase border security while, at the same time, avoiding a negative impact on commerce or even improving the flow of commerce.

The DMIA report, which primarily focuses on recommendations for an exit/entry system for personnel and cargo in and out of the United States, specifically mentions Security Identification Systems Corp.s (SISCO) A-PASS system. A-PASS (Automated Personnel Assisted Security Screening System) is the marine industrys premier ship access control system and is used by most major cruise lines in the United States to meet regulatory requirements.    

The A-PASS system records the arrival and departure of persons, both passenger and crew members, from a ship. Each individuals photograph and biographical details are kept in the system for verification at any time. Reports can easily be generated for evidence or documentation that may be invaluable in investigations or to maintain safety standards i.e. the SOLAS report.    

The IT Consultants Observation for this Committee (IT Report Summary, page 4) states that ‘at present the A-PASS system has several positive aspects and that ‘from an IT perspective, the continued and expanded use of A-PASS could restructure the seaport inspection process and address the current workload issues that impact commerce.     Other extracts of the 172 page report claim that ‘with the advent of A-PASS and enhanced biometrics [offered by the new version], both the cruise lines and inspectors will be better equipped to perform their duties (page 26) and the system could serve ‘as a tool for risk assessment of the crew, passengers and vessel (page 119).

SISCO now has a new improved version of A-PASS to meet further homeland security measures by integrating document authentication and verification (i.e. passport or drivers license), document imaging, and biometrics, all of which meet existing and new regulatory requirement for the credentialing and manifesting of all individuals entering or exiting the United States.

To view the full report (172 pages plus appendices) you can go to the United States Justice Department website: http://www.canambta.org and click on DMIA Task Force Exit/Entry 2002 Report to Congress.
            
                    -#-
For more information contact:
Becky Rosado
Security Identifications Systems Corp. (SISCO)
Marketing Manager
561-691-0050
brosado@siscocorp.com
www.siscocorp.com