By Dave Katzenmeyer
President, Genesis Background Screening Services
Ever since 9-11, the days of terror activity being confined to traditional hard targets like government buildings, mass transit and sites of political or cultural significance is over. In light of recent events, it is increasingly important to be more prepared for threats to soft targets including private sector business buildings.
All businesses need to share in the responsibility of preventing terror activity. There are 8 Signs of Terrorism that can help you spot a possible threat. We encourage you to take the advice of the United States Department of Homeland Security – “See Something, Say Something.”
8 Signs of Terrorism:
Surveillance:
- Surveying target to look for strengths and weaknesses
- Taking photos of building access points
- Timed observations of the activities on the property
- Attention to or avoidance of security cameras
- Multiple instances of the same vehicle being illegally parked at a location
Information Gathering:
- Very specific questions about activities on the property
- Excessive interest in building staff
Testing Security Features:
- Pushing on doors
- Jiggling door handles
- Minor acts of vandalism
- Pulling fire alarms or activating fire exit doors
- Leaving a bag out and checking if/when someone responds
Funding:
- Large purchases made entirely in cash
- Large cash deposits or hidden stores of cash
- Drug trafficking
Acquiring Supplies:
- Stockpiles or hidden stores of weapons
- Large cash purchases, especially of disposable cell phones or chemicals
- Leaving vehicles parked for long periods near a potential site for easy get away
Impersonation:
- Theft of uniform pieces
- Unfamiliar person wearing incorrect uniform
- Incomplete first responder uniform (fire, police, paramedics, security)
Rehearsal:
- Practicing travel routes, entry and exit tactics, or communication tactics before an actual event
- Multiple people moving together using hand signals
- People wearing garments, especially bulky clothing, that is not appropriate for the season
Deployment:
If it looks like something is about to happen, call 911. Do not confront the suspect
To report suspicious activity, contact your local police department’s non-emergency line.
To make sure employees and contractors that are on your property are properly vetted, you can contact Genesis Background Screening Services at 866 944-0041 ext 106 or email getstarted@gbsspro.com
