Owais Crawford
CLEAR is a secure identity company that offers expedited security at 58 U.S. airports, as well as stadiums and other large venues. It uses member data, including fingerprint and iris scans, to automate the identity verification step in the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening process. While some people find it useful, others consider it a waste of money. So, is CLEAR airport security worth it?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time saved | 30 minutes or more |
| Cost | $179-199.95 annually |
| Additional family member cost | $50 |
| Children under 18 | Free with a paid member |
| Availability | 58 U.S. airports |
| Technology | Biometric authentication |
| Customer service | Poor |
| Value for money | Poor |
| Security incidents | Multiple |
| Staffing issues | Understaffed |
| Data protection | Promises not to sell user data |
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What You'll Learn
Clear's biometric technology
Clear is a secure identity company that uses biometric technology to make travel experiences safer and easier, both physically and digitally. The Clear Plus membership costs $189 a year and allows members to skip the line at airport security. Clear uses member data, including fingerprint and iris scans, to automate the identity verification step in the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening process.
Clear members go through a separate security lane with dedicated kiosks, bypassing the line for a TSA agent to review their license or passport. This can save a significant amount of time, especially at busy airports or during peak travel times. Clear promises that members own their biometric data and that it will not be sold or used without their approval. Clear's security program meets the highest standards for data protection and privacy, and members can request to have their data deleted upon ending their services.
However, Clear has faced criticism for its questionable technology, unsustainable business model, and security incidents. Some users have also expressed concerns about the cost, with annual fees ranging from $179 to $199.95, and the limited availability at certain airports. Despite this, for frequent travellers, especially within the US, Clear can be a valuable time-saver, providing a faster and more predictable security process.
Overall, Clear's biometric technology offers a unique and secure way to streamline the airport security experience, providing convenience and peace of mind for travellers, but it is important to consider the cost, availability, and potential privacy concerns before enrolling in the program.
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Cost and value for money
The cost of Clear Plus membership is $179 to $199.95 per year, with an additional $50 to add an adult family member. However, children under 18 can be added for free. This averages out to $15 per month. While some consider Clear to be overpriced and not worth the money, others argue that it is a good value for the time saved during airport security checks. Clear members can skip the line and go through a separate security lane with dedicated kiosks, avoiding the wait for a TSA agent to review their documents. This can save valuable time, especially at busy airports or when travelling with checked bags.
Additionally, Clear members can take advantage of expedited entry at select stadiums and other large venues through the Sports & Events access program, which is free for all Clear members. Clear also has partnerships with companies like Delta and Hertz, offering discounts and additional benefits to their members. For example, SkyMiles members can get a Clear membership for $99, and it's free for those with Diamond Medallion status with Delta.
While the cost may seem high, some credit cards cover the cost entirely or offer discounted rates. Clear also offers a two-month free trial, allowing users to test the service before committing to a membership.
When considering the cost and value of Clear, it's important to weigh the benefits of expedited security checks against the price. For frequent travellers, especially those who often use major US airports, Clear can be a valuable time-saver. However, for those who travel infrequently or internationally, the cost may outweigh the benefits, as Clear is currently only available at select US airports and venues. Ultimately, the decision to use Clear depends on individual travel needs and preferences.
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Customer service
Clear Airport Security is a service that promises to save you time by allowing you to skip the regular security line at the airport. However, opinions on whether the service is worth it vary greatly. While some users praise the convenience and time savings of Clear, others have criticised its high cost, questionable technology, and poor customer service.
Clear has received mixed reviews when it comes to customer service. Some users have described the company as the "worst company ever", citing horrible customer service and an overpriced, scam-like business model. They also claim that Clear does not hire enough agents, which creates a bottleneck and degrades the user experience.
On the other hand, some users have praised Clear's customer service, stating that all the agents are super nice. Clear also has a Member Services team that is available 7 days a week from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time to assist with any issues accessing your account online or through the app.
Clear is committed to transparency and protecting user data. They promise that users will always know what information is being collected, how it will be used, and that it will be kept secure. Users can also request to have all their data, including biometrics, deleted upon ending their membership.
While Clear may offer some benefits in terms of expedited security and customer service, it is important to weigh these against the potential drawbacks, such as cost and technological reliability, before deciding if the service is worth it for your individual needs.
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Safety and security
Clear's secure identity platform transforms members' biometric data into a unique encrypted code, ensuring that personal information remains secure and protected. Clear promises that members own their biometric data and that it will not be sold or used without their approval. This commitment to data protection is certified by the Department of Homeland Security, providing assurance that traveller information is safeguarded.
While Clear prioritizes security, some users have expressed concerns about the company's overall security practices. There have been reports of multiple security incidents, and the company has been criticized for questionable technology and an unsustainable business model. These issues may raise alarms for travellers who entrust their sensitive information to Clear.
Additionally, Clear's cost has been a point of contention for some travellers. With an annual fee of around $189 to $199.95, it is considered pricey by some, especially when compared to the cost of TSA PreCheck. However, Clear offers discounts and free trials, and some credit cards cover the cost entirely or provide a reduced rate, making it more accessible.
In conclusion, Clear Airport Security aims to enhance safety and security for travellers by expediting the identity verification process. While it offers a convenient and secure way to bypass long security lines, travellers should consider their own comfort levels with providing biometric data and the potential risks associated with any large-scale data collection.
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Privacy
Clear states that it transforms users' biometrics into an encrypted code unique to each individual. This encrypted code is used to quickly verify a person's identity when they check in at a Clear kiosk. Clear is also certified by the Department of Homeland Security, indicating that it meets certain security and privacy standards.
However, it is important to recognize that no system is entirely immune to data breaches or cyberattacks. While Clear's use of encryption helps protect user data, there is always a risk that this data could be compromised. Clear's privacy policy should outline in detail how user data is handled, stored, and protected, and users should review this policy to understand their rights and the company's obligations.
Additionally, Clear users should be aware of the potential for function creep, where personal data collected for one purpose is used for other, unrelated purposes. For example, Clear's Sports & Events access allows members to use their Clear membership for expedited entry to participating stadiums. This expansion of Clear's services could raise concerns about the company's access to and use of user data beyond the initial scope of airport security.
Overall, while Clear offers a convenient service that can speed up airport security checks, users should carefully consider the potential privacy implications of sharing their biometric data. It is essential to review Clear's privacy policy, understand how user data is handled, and stay informed about any changes or updates to their data practices.
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Frequently asked questions
Clear is an airport security program that uses biometric data (fingerprints and eye scans) to automate the identity verification process, allowing users to skip long security lines.
Clear membership costs \$199 per year, but some credit cards and airline loyalty programs may offer discounted or free membership.
The main benefit of Clear is expedited security screening at participating airports, allowing members to save time and breeze through long lines. Clear can also be used for expedited entry to select stadiums and arenas.
Clear and TSA PreCheck are separate programs, but they can be used together. Clear speeds up the identity verification process, while TSA PreCheck expedites the luggage screening portion. TSA PreCheck is more widely available than Clear and provides access to expedited security lanes.
The value of Clear membership depends on individual factors such as travel frequency, availability at your local airport, and cost. For frequent flyers with access to Clear at their home airport, it can be a significant time-saver. However, some users have reported long lines and poor customer service at certain airports.
