INS officials have acknowledged such problems. Congress has boosted INS funding in the past several years to help its efforts. But even with improved INS capabilities, most experts believe the problem of passport and visa fraud will be here to stay. It began issuing passports on which the photo is digitally printed onto a page, instead of affixed, making it much more difficult for criminals to substitute another person's photo. The high cost, officials say, may discourage counterfeiters, who are very adept at developing their own techniques, from investing in similar technology.
Officials say the investment is worth it from their point of view.
I think we're winning the passport war through the use of computers and technology. Still, U.S. visas issued to foreigners by U.S. embassies and consulates continue to contain affixed photos that are easier to swap. ABC News Internet Ventures. Click here for Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Internet Safety Information applicable to this site.