Why Being Chatty With A TSA Agent At The Airport Is Not A Good Idea

TSA agents screen approximately 2.4 million passengers daily, and we can all agree that most of us would prefer NOT to be one of the memorable ones. Not to cramp your style and douse the fire of your radiant personality, but TSA agents are there to flag suspicious persons. If you're catching their attention, it could be ventured to say that's not a great thing for you. With that said, it can be a little nerve-wracking and anxiety-inducing for passengers as they enter the airport screening area under the scrutiny and disciplined presence of TSA. Some attempt to smooth this tension and stress with just a tad bit of friendly conversation. But whether it's your natural inclination to spread good vibes or to prattle when you're nervous, there are a few reasons why being too chatty with a TSA agent is not a good idea.

First of all, the Transportation Security Administration was formed in 2001 to "protect the nation's transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce". TSA agents are there to ensure airtight airport security, so drawing attention to yourself is a drain on resources and an impairment to your own security. Second, being overly chatty with TSA agents may increase their suspicion of you rather than mitigate it. They are trained to observe and detect certain behaviors (for example, to analyze you), so be on your best behavior, and remember that loose lips sink ships.

Over the past few years, the Department of Homeland Security has encouraged TSA agents to use behavioral observation and analysis to identify "persons who pose or may pose potential transportation security risks by focusing on behaviors indicative of high levels of stress, fear, or deception." TSA agents are trained to observe airport traffic flow and pinpoint external cues of guilt or suspicious activity. Behaviors that raise red flags could be extreme nervousness, intentional distracting, being upset or frustrated, being defensive of your baggage, or even being shifty-eyed and not making eye contact.

Even well-intended friendliness on your part could be a red flag.  Buttering up a TSA agent could look like you are trying to overcompensate for something you are hiding. And get this: If a TSA agent does engage you in conversation and initiate friendliness, it would still be in your best interests to remain aloof and not share too much. They are also trained to protract information!

It's best to display neutral mannerisms: be respectful, professional, and short-worded. Look them in the eye and have succinct and honest answers to their questions. Respond politely if spoken to, but don't initiate anything. A friendly nod is chill. Don't try to make their day. Make your day, their day, and the world's day better by being another uneventful passenger on their way to their destination. It can be a bummer to put a short-term cap on your amazing personality, but to avoid being flagged by TSA, neutral behavior at the airport is the most efficient route for you.