Passengers have recently been discovering the true meaning behind the four-letter code ‘SSSS’, and many are calling it the “kiss of death” for a smooth airport experience.
Navigating airport security is rarely stress-free-from long queues to organizing liquids and electronics, to anxiously waiting for your bag to be cleared. But spotting a mysterious four-letter code on your boarding pass could make the process even more daunting.
The SSSS code stands for "Secondary Security Screening Selection," an intensive security measure enforced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States.
It can result in lengthy delays, additional screenings, and even the copying of your phone data.
TikToker Jordyn Verzera, who posts under @themobilehomie, shared her partner’s recent encounter with the process.
After spotting the code on his boarding pass, she filmed their unexpected separation at airport security and later showed him being cleared following an exhaustive check.
In the caption, Verzera explained: “On flights to/from the US, you can get ‘randomly’ selected to undergo a much higher level of security."
"For him, this meant separating all of his things from mine, pulling absolutely everything out of his bag, swabbing everything, and then making sure that his laptop turned on (so they could inspect it),” she added.
According to The Points Guy, the SSSS process typically includes a "full-body pat-down, an additional metal-detecting wand wave, and explosive-detecting swabs rubbed on your baggage and at least your hands".
"The TSA agent will probably ask you questions about if you packed your bag yourself and others regarding your itinerary, reason for travel, and destination information. Your screening may be more or less invasive and potentially involve additional steps. You'll be given the option to have this process performed in a private screening room," they shared.
Some travelers have even described having their feet swabbed or being taken to private rooms for further searches.
And while there’s no set time for how long these screenings take, one thing is clear: if you see ‘SSSS’ on your ticket, you’ll want to arrive at the airport well ahead of schedule.
Online, reactions range from curious to creeped out. “Can they search your laptop and stuff. Is that even legal?" one user said, while another shared: "Why would they check your computer? Do they have warrants? The more I learn about the US, the more I dislike it. It’s a EWW."
A third user even recalled an invasive encounter at the airport: “I always got checked for explosives and drugs, with swab tests on my wallet, hands, belt, pants, and such. idk why."