The impact of the EES and ETIAS on the European security. Warning about the emergence of fake ETIAS websites

The rules of travelling to Europe are changing: the European Union is currently preparing for the launch of two new border management initiatives, the Entry Exit System (EES) and ETIAS, which will further strengthen Europe’s internal security.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) will affect all non-EU nationals entering Europe. It is an automated IT system for registering travellers from non-EU countries each time they cross the EU’s external border. With the EES, travellers will scan their passports or other travel documents at automated self-service kiosks at border crossing points and the system will register the person’s name, type of the travel document, biometric data (i.e., fingerprints and captured facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit. The EES will replace the manual stamping of passports, providing a more systematic detection of overstayers.

ETIAS on the other hand is a new travel authorisation requirement for visa-free travellers only. Similar to the American ESTA or the Canadian ETA, its introduction will strengthen border controls and checks of visitors prior to their arrival to Europe. ETIAS will require the travellers to fill out an online form and each application will be automatically checked for matches in EU databases as well as screened against security, illegal immigration and public health risks before they undertake their trip to Europe. ETIAS has major implications for security and international travel globally, affecting a potential 1.4 billion people from over 60 countries.

In collaboration with Frontex – the European Border and Coast Guard Agency and the European Commission, Border Security Report presents this webinar which looks at the progress of the European EES and ETIAS roll out, the lessons learnt, the technology issues and the implications it will have for travellers, carriers, and governments worldwide. In addition, the webinar will also focus on the growing misinformation about ETIAS and look at the concerning emergence of fake and unofficial ETIAS websites and how to avoid identity theft by criminal gangs.

SPEAKERS:

• Jorge da Silva Rodrigues, Deputy Head of Application Handlers Unit, ETIAS Central Unit Division, FRONTEX
• Izabella Cooper, Senior Stakeholder Management Officer, ETIAS Central Unit Division, FRONTEX
• Adrian Carbajo Ariza, Policy Officer, European Commission