How Do I Contact Homeland Security?
The Department of Homeland Security is charged with protecting the United States from threats. It uses its own intelligence system, but also receives tips from citizens. DHS works on counter-terrorism issues, border security and preparedness and recovery from disasters. It is appropriate to contact the agency if you observe something suspicious and potentially threatening that falls within their mission.
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Instructions
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Ensure the Department of Homeland Security is the proper agency to contact. DHS is an umbrella organization for many other government agencies including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Coast Guard, the Secret Service and Customs and Border Protection. Your concern might be better handled at one of these component agencies.
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Check to make sure your concern is valid. DHS has the mission of protecting the United States from different threats. The agency is busy. Consider contacting local law enforcement first and then ask if you should contact DHS as well.
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Mail the secretary of Homeland Security:
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Washington, DC 20528
Other DHS staff:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Washington, D.C. 20528
Contact DHS by phone:
Operator Number: 202-282-8000
Comment Line: 202-282-8495
For any Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests:
Chief Privacy Officer/Chief FOIA Officer
The Privacy Office
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
245 Murray Drive SW, Building 410
STOP-0655
Washington, D.C. 20528-0655
Fraud, whistleblower hotline:
DHS Office of Inspector General/MAIL STOP 2600
Attention: Office of Investigations - Hotline
245 Murray Drive, SW, Building 410
Washington, DC 20528
OIG Hotline at 1-800-323-8603
DHSOIGHOTLINE@dhs.gov
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Tips & Warnings
If you have not received a response, call again to check on the status of your inquiry.
Do not lie to DHS. Giving false information can be damaging to the agency and could be illegal.
