Homeland Security Flashcards
(31 cards)
What are the three core missions of Homeland Security?
Prevent terrorism, reduce vulnerabilities, and minimize damage from attacks.
How is homeland security different from national security?
It includes cyber threats, crime, pandemics, environmental, food, and infrastructure risks.
What is terrorism?
The use of violence or threat to influence policy or create widespread fear.
What was the “Golden Age of Terrorism” in the U.S.?
The 1970s: over 9,800 attacks, including 150 plane hijackings.
What law in 1974 introduced universal airport screening?
The Air Transportation Security Act.
What was the significance of Pan Am 103 in 1988?
It was bombed with Semtex, prompting global changes in explosive detection.
What technology was suggested after Pan Am 103 for detecting nitrogen-rich explosives?
Thermal Neutron Analysis.
What is the InVision CTX-5000?
The first certified Explosive Detection System (EDS), using CT x-rays.
What detection method became common post-9/11?
Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS), modified for non-nitrate explosives like TATP.
What agency was created 11 days after 9/11?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Name three DHS agencies involved in security and response.
TSA, FEMA, ICE (also: CBP, Secret Service, USCG, CISA).
What are the five main DHS security missions?
Counterterrorism, border security, cybersecurity, economic security, preparedness.
What does “Left of Boom” refer to?
Detection efforts before an explosive event.
What does “Right of Boom” refer to?
Crime scene analysis and reconstruction after an explosion.
What are the two main types of bulk detection technologies?
Image-based (e.g., x-ray) and nuclei-based (e.g., neutron activation).
How does Thermal Neutron Analysis detect explosives?
It detects gamma emissions from nitrogen-rich materials.
What is backscatter x-ray used for?
Scanning people and baggage for concealed items; detects reflected radiation.
Why did TSA replace backscatter scanners with millimeter-wave scanners?
Privacy concerns and better anomaly detection using ATD software.
What are ETDs and how do they work?
Explosive Trace Detectors detect microscopic residues via swabbing and analysis.
What ion detection tool is common in airports?
IMS (Ion Mobility Spectrometry)
Why is vapor detection difficult for many explosives?
Most have extremely low vapor pressures and evaporate slowly.
What are the strengths of canine detectors?
High sensitivity, mobility, and trainability.
Why is canine detection considered presumptive?
It indicates likelihood of presence but requires confirmatory testing.
What is an odorant vs. odor profile?
Odorant = single molecule; Odor profile = mixture of molecules forming a unique scent.
