Have you ever gotten the SSSS code on your boarding pass?

Question

It's code for secondary security check, and I agree that airport security is important. However, it happened to me on both flights of my round trip to NYC. I was patted and wanded, my belongings were thoroughly rifled through and many of my things including my wallet were tested for explosives. I was told that it was random, but how random can it be if it happens to the same person twice in two days?

Answer 1

Its happened to me several times and its just a case of being profiled.  this happens when you purchase your ticket with cash, or when you purchase your ticket at the last minute at the airport.  The reason is that they have not had the time to run you through the computer for a basic security check, so they do a secondary on you just in case.  If you book farther in advance this usually does not happen.

Answer 2

While most of the time it is random, there are also certain criteria that if met the SSSS will be assigned.  I cannot tell you what they are but I have a friend that works for the airline and that is what they told me.