What is the primary characteristic of a "suspicionless search"?

The primary characteristic of a "suspicionless search" is indeed related to government interests such as security. This type of search is justified primarily not by evidence of individual wrongdoing but by broader public safety or regulatory interests. For instance, suspicionless searches are often conducted in situations like airport security screenings, where the overarching goal is to ensure the safety of all travelers rather than to target specific individuals based on their behavior or background.

In the context of law enforcement and policies, these searches aim to protect the public or maintain order without the necessity of individualized suspicion. This approach can sometimes lead to friction over civil liberties, but it is generally upheld under certain circumstances where the government can demonstrate a compelling interest in protecting the public welfare or securing a facility.

In contrast, searches that are tied to specific evidence of a crime, limited to individuals with prior offenses, or contingent upon immediate threats do not fit the definition of suspicionless searches, as they rely on particularized suspicion or evidence rather than a generalized concern for security or public safety.