Topic: Badge Scanning

Adam Curry expresses his discomfort with the aggressive badge-scanning practices employed by "booth babes" at the NAB convention. He describes the use of handheld scanners to collect attendee data via QR codes without explicit verbal consent. The hosts discuss strategies for avoiding unwanted data collection, such as turning badges over or physically blocking the scanner.

The TSA has rebranded its headquarters as the "Freedom Center" and is rolling out full-body X-ray scans that show passengers in their underwear. Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) are now being issued formal police-style badges in ceremonial events, leading to concerns about increased militarization. There is skepticism regarding the use of these badges to avoid traffic tickets or gain authority outside of airports.