TSO Security Threat Awareness Questions and Answers

Question 1

While observing passengers at divestiture, a TSO notices an individual who is avoiding eye contact with staff, sweating profusely despite the cool temperature, and repeatedly glancing at all uniformed personnel.
This cluster of behaviors is most indicative of:

Accepted Answer

A potential high-stress state that warrants additional, non-confrontational observation and reporting.

Answer

A simple fear of flying, which is common among travelers.

Answer

A medical emergency requiring immediate first aid.

Answer

An individual who is late for their flight and anxious about missing it.

Question 2

Which of the following correctly lists the four essential components of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), commonly remembered by the acronym PIES?

Accepted Answer

Power source, Initiator, Explosive, Switch

Answer

Plastic, Igniter, Electrical charge, Shrapnel

Answer

Propellant, Incendiary, Casing, Timer

Answer

Primary charge, Insulator, Emitter, Sensor

Question 3

An individual without a boarding pass is observed for an extended period near the security checkpoint, taking notes and appearing to time how long various screening procedures take. This activity is a primary indicator of what type of threat-related activity?

Accepted Answer

Hostile surveillance

Answer

An unattended baggage situation

Answer

An insider threat attempt

Answer

A prohibited items probe

Question 4

The concept of 'layered security' in an airport environment means that:

Accepted Answer

Multiple, overlapping security measures are in place, so that if one layer is bypassed, another is likely to detect the threat.

Answer

Each security function, like the TDC and X-ray, operates independently to prevent a single point of failure.

Answer

The TSO's role at the checkpoint is the single most important and final layer of defense against threats.

Answer

Passengers are screened multiple times using the exact same procedure to ensure nothing is missed.

Question 5

A TSO observes a uniformed airline employee use their security badge to allow another individual, who is not in uniform and has no visible ID, through a secure door leading to the airfield. This scenario is a classic example of what potential threat?

Accepted Answer

An insider threat and 'piggybacking'.

Answer

A simple customer service courtesy for a valued client.

Answer

A Known Crewmember violation.

Answer

A diversion tactic to distract TSOs.

Question 6

What is the primary function of a Security Directive (SD) or Emergency Amendment (EA) issued by the TSA?

Accepted Answer

To mandate specific, legally-binding security measures in response to credible intelligence or an evolving threat.

Answer

To provide optional best-practice recommendations to airport operators.

Answer

To inform the public about new travel tips and packing guidelines.

Answer

To document routine administrative changes to TSO work shifts and break schedules.

While observing passengers at divestiture, a TSO notices an individual who is avoiding eye contact with staff, sweating profusely despite the cool temperature, and repeatedly glancing at all uniformed personnel.This cluster of behaviors is most indicative of:

While observing passengers at divestiture, a TSO notices an individual who is avoiding eye contact with staff, sweating profusely despite the cool temperature, and repeatedly glancing at all uniformed personnel.
This cluster of behaviors is most indicative of: