Most of the debate surrounding the War on Terrorism has focused on human rights abuses, suspensions, or partial suspensions of the rule of law and the need for balance between human rights and security. While it is of great importance to discuss these matters, it is also essential to ask whether or not U.S. security measures are designed to effectively prevent and combat the current threat of terrorism. This article seeks to determine just that, by evaluating mass registration and surveillance measures and their appropriateness in dealing with the terrorist threat.