Prohibited Items and Threat Recognition Flashcards
7 cards from real TSO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Prohibited Items and Threat Recognition flashcards as text
A passenger's carry-on contains a snow globe larger than a baseball. What is the correct action?
Answer: Prohibit it regardless of liquid clarity
Snow globes larger than a baseball are prohibited in carry-on baggage regardless of apparent liquid content because their size makes liquid volume unverifiable.
Which of the following tools is generally permitted in carry-on baggage?
Answer: A small flathead screwdriver under 7 inches
Tools shorter than 7 inches (measured from the end of the handle) are permitted in carry-on baggage, while longer tools must be checked.
What does the term 'artfully concealed' mean in the context of TSO threat recognition?
Answer: Prohibited items hidden within everyday objects to avoid detection
Artfully concealed refers to prohibited items deliberately hidden inside ordinary objects such as books, electronics, or food containers to evade X-ray detection.
A passenger presents a medically necessary syringe but has no prescription label. What should the TSO do?
Answer: Resolve the situation through additional screening and consult a supervisor if needed
TSOs should apply additional screening measures for declared medical syringes and escalate to a supervisor when documentation is absent but the claim appears legitimate.
Which of the following best describes a 'dual-use' item in aviation security?
Answer: An item that is harmless in normal use but can potentially be used as a weapon
Dual-use items are everyday objects—such as walking canes, umbrellas, or sporting equipment—that serve legitimate purposes but could be weaponized.
A firearm magazine loaded with ammunition but without an attached firearm is discovered in a carry-on. What is the correct classification?
Answer: Prohibited; treat it the same as a loaded firearm
Loaded firearm magazines are prohibited in carry-on baggage and must be transported in checked baggage in a hard-sided, locked container.
Which behavioral indicator might suggest a passenger is attempting to smuggle prohibited items through the checkpoint?
Answer: Avoiding eye contact, appearing excessively nervous, and repeatedly checking surroundings
Behavioral detection officers are trained to identify clusters of indicators such as avoidance of eye contact, excessive nervousness, and hypervigilance as potential signs of deceptive intent.