Investigators obtain U.S. passports using fraudulent materials

Government investigators revealed a cavernous hole in U.S. security by deliberately using fraudulent material to obtain passports. This is the second time in two years this has happened. 

The investigation performed by the Government Accountability Office, detailed on Capitol Hill Thursday, proves that despite security overhauls since the terrorist attacks in September 11, 2001, the State Department’s system for issuing passport remains open to fraud.

It also displays how an unlawfully obtained U.S. passport – one of the most hunted travel documents in the world – could provide cover for drug dealers, murders and others attempting to steer clear of capture.

In the latest study, GAO investigators applied for seven passports and received three, without any suspicion. In two other cases, the applications were initially approved but later denied when fraud was discovered. Officials of the State Department turned away two other phony applications.

Source: Associated Press