How to Identify Unusual Interest in Potential Targets

Law enforcement officials and investigators continually review blogs, letters and other documents that indicate terrorist interest in specific targets. If you can identify unusual interest in potential targets, you will help protect your community from harm. Follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Search the Internet for blog entries about upcoming events or meetings. The freedom of speech and anonymity that are part of the Internet make blogs an important tool for criminals to express their intentions. The proclamations of criminals and terrorists on their Web log can help identify unusual interests in particular targets.
2. Submit your tips and leads about potential criminal activities to federal authorities. Your tips can help authorities develop better preparedness plans on a national scale. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has a form dedicated to citizen tips about potential terrorist targets (see Resources below).
3. Call the police if you feel that unusual interest in a target will manifest itself immediately. In most communities, a 911 call will lead to police officers, the fire department and other authorities to investigate threats within minutes.
4. Observe stadiums, arenas and public facilities for repeat visits by the same groups of people. Terrorists may arrive at an area where public events will take place to find weaknesses or create a plan of attack. Make note of identifying clothing, equipment or physical appearance to help event security.
5. Review every incident of bounced checks and fraudulent documents at stores near a potential target. The disorganization and poor attention to detail of amateur criminals can help you track and stop them before they engage in illegal activities.
6. Track the purchases and spending habits of terrorists or criminals before they commit criminal activities. For example, you may observe a group of shoppers purchasing a high amount of ammunition from a local gun shop. Other shopping habits that indicate potential criminal activity are the use of inexpensive hotels and rental vehicles.

Tips & Warnings

• Appreciate the fact that most criminals keep a low profile when assessing possible targets. While law enforcement sometimes intercepts messages between criminals, many crimes are committed with small budgets and limited communications. Report any suspicious interest or communications immediately to help law enforcement officials get an investigation started.