Recent tests by SanDisk and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have revealed no evidence of X-ray scanner damage to digital camera media cards or to the images they hold. Although camera phones weren't tested, it is expected that they will be safe as well. X-ray scanners can distort images on film, so travellers are encouraged to request hand inspection for those items.
The tests of digital media took place at the TSA Security Laboratory in Atlantic City, N.J. A broad selection of media and devices from a range of manufacturers, loaded with detailed images, was subjected to repeated passes through X-ray scanners matching those now in use at transportation facilities. At the end of the tests, the images were unaltered and the devices showed no sign of damage. Complete details on the tested media cards, test protocols and results can be downloaded here.
