What is the primary purpose of a 'Search Only' operation?

The primary purpose of a 'Search Only' operation is to search for existing person information. This type of operation focuses on retrieving and confirming information about individuals who may be relevant to a border security context. It typically involves accessing databases and records to identify individuals who may have previous encounters with law enforcement or immigration authorities. The goal is to gather intelligence and assess any potential risks associated with a person’s travel or status.

While the other options each mention important activities relevant to border operations, they do not align with the specific purpose of a 'Search Only' operation. For instance, locating a missing person is a broader investigative action that may involve various resources and methods beyond merely searching existing records. Enrolling new travelers refers to the initial registration process, which is focused on collecting fresh data rather than searching for existing information. Similarly, verifying fingerprints is a specific biometric task, which, while it can be part of a broader investigation, does not encapsulate the general goal of querying pre-existing individual data as seen in a 'Search Only' operation.