Security theater

Security theater is the practice of implementing security measures that are considered to provide the feeling of improved security while doing little or nothing to achieve it.

The term was originally coined by Bruce Schneier for his book Beyond Fear and has since been widely adopted by the media and the public, particularly in discussions surrounding the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Practices criticized as security theater include airport security measures, stop and frisk policies on public transportation, and clear bag policies at sports venues.