The 7 Signs of Terrorism (Arlington County)

[Loren Booda]

1. Surveillance: Recording or monitoring activities. May include drawing diagrams, note taking, use of cameras, binoculars or other vision-enhancing devices, or possessing floor plans or blueprints of key facilities.

2. Elicitation: Attempts to obtain operation, security, and personnel-related information regarding a key facility. May be made by mail, fax, e-mail, telephone, or in person.

3. Tests of Security: Attempts to measure reaction times to security breaches or to penetrate physical security barriers or procedures in order to assess strengths and weaknesses.

4. Acquiring Supplies: Attempts to improperly acquire items that could be used in a terrorist act. May include the acquisition of explosives, weapons, harmful chemicals, flight manuals, law enforcement or military equipment, uniforms, identification badges, or the equipment to manufacture false identification.

5. Suspicious Persons: Someone who does not appear to belong in a workplace, neighborhood or business establishment due to his/her behavior, including unusual questions or statements he/she make.

6. Dry Runs/Trial Runs: Behavior that appears to be preparation for a terrorist act without actually committing the act. Activity could include mapping out routes and determining the timing of traffic lights and flow.

7. Deploying Assets: Placing people, equipment, and supplies into position to commit the act. This is the last opportunity to alert authorities before the terrorist act occurs.

http://www.vsp.state.va.us/FusionCenter/7-Signs.shtm

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[DoggerDan]

Sounds about right.

 

[Loren Booda]

Thank you for your editing, berkeman.

 

[Proton Soup]

yup, that about covers everybody.

 

[LudusRex]

As a scientist, it is important to approach this topic objectively and with a focus on evidence-based information. The 7 Signs of Terrorism outlined by Arlington County are based on observations and patterns that have been identified by law enforcement and security experts. While these signs may indicate potential terrorist activity, it is important to remember that they do not necessarily guarantee that an act of terrorism will occur.

Surveillance, elicitation, tests of security, acquiring supplies, suspicious persons, dry runs/trial runs, and deploying assets are all behaviors that may be indicative of terrorist activity. However, it is important to carefully assess each situation and gather additional information before jumping to conclusions. It is also important to keep in mind that these signs may not always be present in every case of terrorism.

Furthermore, it is important to note that these signs are not limited to just terrorist acts. Some of these behaviors may also be exhibited by individuals who are planning criminal activities or conducting legitimate research. Therefore, it is crucial to use caution and gather as much information as possible before labeling someone as a potential terrorist.

In conclusion, while the 7 Signs of Terrorism can be useful in identifying potential threats, it is important to approach each situation with an open mind and gather additional evidence before making any conclusions. As scientists, we must continue to gather and analyze data on terrorist activity in order to better understand and prevent these acts in the future.