After my experiences with UAL I simply ceased carrying any real carry-on luggage. Now I carry a Goodwill bag for checking with throw-away rags and old magazines and such in it so that I won't be IDed as a terrorist because I don't have a check bag. I don't even bother to pick it up at the other end.
That is just simply NOT true. I use locks that are approved by TSA. Quoting from tsa.gov website: "TSA has worked with several companies to develop locks that can be opened by security officers using universal "master" keys so that the locks may not have to be cut. These locks are available at airports and travel stores nationwide."
This lock also has a feature where it indicates to me if TSA has opened it with their special key. That way, I know to carefully check right away to make sure nothing is missing.
Of course smart packing means you NEVER carry anything in the checked bag that it would be a tragedy to lose. I carry-on a small shoulder tote that holds one change of clothes (in case checked bag is lost or stolen), toothbrush, meds and any jewelry, that sort of thing, and I NEVER allow it out of my sight. I have traveled all over the USA and to many other countries and they have all honored that..... though once at a layover/plane-change in Paris, they tried to separate me from my carry-on at the inspection, but when I politely but firmly insisted, they gave in. It got a bit heated for a moment, as the agent only spoke French and my grasp of French is limited to about 25 words. I think what finally prevailed was when I said (loud enough for other agents to hear),something to effect of "the honor of France is involved here".... and an English speaking agent jumped in and apologized and allowed me to watch as he searched my tote bag.... LOL