A Small Code With Big Impact
Air travel is stressful enough, but one tiny detail on your boarding pass can make it more intense. Travelers heading to or from the U.S. are being warned to look for the code “SSSS.” It stands for “Secondary Security Screening Selection,” and it means extra checks at security.

What SSSS Really Means
The code does not mean you did anything wrong. As the article explains, it is “a security procedure, not an accusation.” Passengers with SSSS are selected for more detailed screening, either randomly or through internal risk assessments.

What Extra Screening Looks Like
Travel influencer Jordyn Verzera highlighted the process in a 2024 TikTok, showing her partner going through it. He had to remove all items from his bag, submit belongings for swabbing, and power on his laptop so officers could verify it worked. The screening was “noticeably more detailed than standard screening” and took extra time.

Why It Feels Unpredictable
Many travelers shared similar stories online. Some said they were flagged repeatedly, even as veterans or federal employees. Others believed travel history played a role. These accounts show how confusing and invasive the process can feel.

How to Prepare If You See It
If your boarding pass shows SSSS, arrive early, stay calm, and follow instructions. Knowing what the code means ahead of time can turn a stressful surprise into a manageable delay.