Be aware of the eight signs of terrorism

  • Published
  • By Nicholas M. Zallas
  • Installation Antiterrorism Officer
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  A key element in the United States' effort to protect against crime and terrorism is the concept that homeland security begins with hometown, or base, security. An alert public plays a critical role in keeping the nation safe by looking for and reporting any suspicious behavior.

The following are eight signs of terrorism that could signal a potential terrorist attack:

1. Surveillance: Close watch kept over someone or something to determine a target's strengths or weaknesses, such as monitoring security equipment or recording emergency services response time.

2. Elicitation: Trying to get information or a response.

3. Testing security: Examining security in a planned way to see if it works properly. Examples include trespassing into a secure area or testing the response to a bag unattended in a public place to see how long it takes people or security to respond.

4. Funding: To provide money for something. Terrorists need to raise money in a way that doesn't draw attention to their activities. Be aware of people soliciting money for a charity you've never heard of.

5. Acquiring supplies: To come into possession of supplies to fit in better. Acquiring or stealing uniforms or forging personal identifications is a common tactic.

6. Impersonation: To assume or act as another person. Terrorists may impersonate law enforcement officers, postal workers or company employees to gain information. Someone who seems suspicious in what they say or do on the job should be a red flag.

7. Rehearsal: A practice exercise. Terrorists often rehearse a plan or attack several times to make sure their operation works smoothly.

8. Deployment: To move or place into position for some purpose. This is when terrorists are putting their plans into place. Common activities include moving supplies and getting into position to launch their attack.

Base personnel are asked to say something if they see something. Report any suspicious activities to 9-911, call security forces at 781-377-2315 or the OSI "Eagle Eyes" hotline at 781- 377- EYES (3937).