Is all mail xrayed
In the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) does not x-ray mail, but the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may inspect and x-ray packages and mail that are suspected of containing illegal or prohibited items.
The CBP has the authority to inspect and search mail and packages that are entering the country, and they use various methods to do so, including x-raying packages. However, this is typically done on a selective basis, and not all mail is x-rayed.
The CBP uses various criteria to determine which packages and mail to inspect, including:
- Risk assessment: The CBP uses data and intelligence to identify packages and mail that are more likely to contain illegal or prohibited items.
- Physical characteristics: The CBP may inspect packages and mail that have unusual physical characteristics, such as unusual shapes or sizes.
- Suspicious behavior: The CBP may inspect packages and mail that are sent from or to countries with a high incidence of illegal activity.
- Information from other agencies: The CBP may receive information from other law enforcement agencies or intelligence agencies that suggests a package or mail may contain illegal or prohibited items.
If a package or mail is selected for inspection, the CBP may use various methods to inspect it, including:
- Visual inspection: The CBP may visually inspect the package or mail to look for any signs of illegal or prohibited items.
- X-ray inspection: The CBP may use x-ray machines to inspect the contents of the package or mail.
- Physical search: The CBP may physically search the package or mail to look for any illegal or prohibited items.
- Chemical testing: The CBP may use chemical testing to detect the presence of illegal or prohibited substances.
It's worth noting that the CBP is required to follow strict procedures and guidelines when inspecting and searching mail and packages, and they are prohibited from opening or searching packages or mail without a valid reason or warrant.