Abstract
Masks occupy a unique and dual role in society, functioning as both critical tools for public health protection and enablers of anonymity, which can be exploited for deviant or criminal purposes. Historically, masks have evolved from their origins in plague prevention to modern applications in medical, public health, and societal contexts. While essential during health crises such as the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, their use also reveals unintended consequences, including fostering riskier behavior through the Peltzman Effect and enabling anonymity-driven disassociation described by Deindividuation Theory. This article explores the complexities of mask usage at the intersection of public health and safety. It examines how masks, while mitigating disease transmission, can embolden individuals to take greater risks or evade accountability in public disturbances and criminal activities. Through historical and contemporary case studies-including the 1918 influenza pandemic, the Ku Klux Klan's use of masks, and modern legislation like New York's 2024 Mask Transparency Act-the article underscores the need for nuanced policies that balance public health objectives with security concerns. Integrating behavioral theories with legal and emergency management strategies, it advocates for a multifaceted approach to mask policy that addresses both their protective role and potential for misuse, ultimately fostering a safer and more resilient society.