Beast Technologies and InfrastructurePrivacy fears erupt as new facial recognition rules take effect at US airports TODAY Posted on January 19, 2026 by Administrator A new policy across US airports that will collect facial recognition data from noncitizens entering and leaving the country comes into effect today. The measure is designed to curb visa fraud, identify criminals, detect overstays and prevent illegal reentries, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said.