Duration

Additional Details

• Our concerns that violent extremists could be inspired to conduct attacks inside the U.S. have not diminished.
• As the U.S. continues to apply pressure against terrorist-affiliated groups overseas, attempts by these groups to inspire or even direct attacks inside the U.S. may increase.
• Though we know of no intelligence that is both specific and credible at this time of a plot by terrorist organizations to attack the homeland, the reality is terrorist-inspired individuals have conducted, or attempted to conduct, attacks in the United States.
• DHS is especially concerned that terrorist-inspired individuals and homegrown violent extremists may be encouraged or inspired to target public events or places.
• The holiday season, in particular, provides additional opportunities for violent extremists to target public events and places where people congregate.
• Terrorist use of the Internet to inspire individuals to violence or join their ranks remains a major source of concern.
• In the current environment, DHS is also concerned about threats and violence directed at particular communities and individuals across the country, based on perceived religion, ethnicity, nationality or sexual orientation.

U.S. Government Counterterrorism Efforts

• DHS and the FBI continue to provide guidance to state, local, tribal and territorial partners related to the current threat environment. DHS also partners closely with the private sector to provide risk assessments and coordinate enhanced security measures with business owners and operators. The public may continue to observe increased law enforcement and security presence, particularly around certain holiday celebrations and other large gatherings.
• The FBI is investigating potential terrorism-related activities associated with this broad threat throughout the United States. Federal, state, and local authorities are coordinating numerous law enforcement actions and conducting community outreach to address this evolving threat.

Types of Advisories

Bulletin

Describes current developments or general trends regarding threats of terrorism.

Elevated Alert

Warns of a credible terrorism threat against the United States.

Imminent Alert

Warns of a credible, specific and impending terrorism threat against the United States.

How You Can Help

• Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or public safety officials who are best positioned to respond and offer specific details on terroristic indicators.
• Suspicious activity or information about a threat may also be reported to Fusion Centers and the FBI’s Field Offices - part of the Nationwide Suspicious Activity Reporting Initiative.
• Learn how to recognize signs of pre-operational planning associated with terrorism or other criminal activity.

Be Prepared

• Be prepared for security and plan ahead.
• In populated places, be responsible for your personal safety. Make a mental note of emergency exits and locations of the nearest security personnel. Carry emergency contact details and any special needs information with you at all times.
• Business owners are encouraged to Connect, Plan, Train, and Report to prepare businesses & employees.
• For more visit Ready and DHS’s Hometown Security Campaign.

Stay Informed

• The U.S. Government will provide additional information about any emerging threat as additional information is identified. The public is encouraged to listen to local law enforcement and public safety officials.
• We urge Americans to continue to travel, attend public events, and freely associate with others but remain vigilant and aware of surroundings.
• The Department of State issues international travel alerts and warnings.