(TLP:CLEAR) First Responder Toolbox – Large Public Gatherings Attractive Targets for Violent Extremists

Summary: As part of their First Responder’s Toolbox series, the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), DHS, and the FBI have published a report to provide information on planning and responding to terrorism threats against mass gatherings that are not contained within a secured perimeter. WaterISAC is sharing this report for situational awareness.

Analyst Note: While the report focuses on securing public gatherings, it still offers important guidance that security managers in the water and wastewater sector would find useful. It is also practical for utility employees’ personal security considerations. Violent extremists remain interested in attacking large public gatherings such as sporting events, music venues, high-profile special events, or symbolic locations. Attackers may have unrestricted access to public gatherings that extend beyond a secured perimeter, including sporting event fan zones, special event watch parties, or mass gatherings before or after an event.

Lastly, terrorist propaganda regularly advocates for attackers to use vehicles, edged weapons, and firearms against easily accessible targets where large crowds are gathered. Thus, understanding common attack methods and vulnerabilities of large public gatherings can help prevent, mitigate, or respond to threats or crises at these types of events.

Original Source: https://www.dni.gov/files/NCTC/documents/jcat/firstresponderstoolbox/163s-Large-Public-Gatherings-Attractive-Targets-for-Violent-Extremists.pdf  

Additional Reading:

• (TLP:CLEAR) First Responder’s Toolbox: Third-Party Security Critical to Safeguarding Public Gatherings From Terrorist Threats

Mitigation Recommendations:

• CISA – Personal Security Considerations Action Guide
• CISA – Securing Public Gatherings
• CISA: Complex Coordinated Attacks Security Awareness for Soft Targets and Crowded Places

Related WaterISAC PIRs: 3 & 5