Definition: TSA lock

(Transportation Security Administration lock) A luggage lock that can be opened not only by its owner but also by TSA agents at U.S. airports. By law, agents are allowed to inspect the contents of all checked baggage. If a suitcase secured with an ordinary lock is targeted for examination, the TSA will cut open and destroy the lock. However, agents are able to open a TSA-approved lock with a master key.

Unfortunately, TSA locks are not entirely tamperproof. The blueprints for some master keys have been circulated on the Web, and the keys can be 3D printed. See smart luggage.

They Look Like Regular Locks

Master Lock makes a variety of TSA-accepted luggage locks such as these. (Image courtesy of Master Lock.)