New Delhi: Fake e-tickets cases have spiked in the last couple of year and according to recent CISF data, incidents of fake e-tickets to enter Indian airports illegally were highest this year. This has prompted security agencies to think about secure access system for passengers, reported PTI. The agencies are thinking of barcode-based or biometric access systems at the airports to prevent illegal entry.

Security officials told the news agency that while these incidents have not resulted in a terror threat or extreme security sabotage, it can be-be misused in the future to breach airport security. According to the report, a total of about 140 incidents were reported till early this December which is higher compared to 111 registered last year, the report added. The results are even scarier because, in 2016 and 2015, the numbers were even lower.

A senior airport security official was quoted in the report saying, While none of these incidents were serious from the point of view of a serious security breach, the possibility of someone using a fake or cancelled e-ticket to cause a serious breach to airport security in the future cannot be ruled out.”

It may be noted that most of these incidents were the result of either ignorance or the desire to see off a family member or friend. In order to combat this menace, security agencies have suggested barcode-based entry of passengers to prevent people with fake e-tickets from entering the airport. The government is already working on Digi Yatra which will provide a unique ID to each passenger. The passengers will be required to share this ID at the airport.

Under digi yatra, a passenger’s biometrics such as their facial or iris will be captured once they enter the airport. The person will be able to go through a full-lifecycle of travel barring security. It is believed that the use of technology and unique ID or biometric identification will help prevent people with fake tickets from entering the airport.