According to the Merrium-Webster dictionary, the definition of terrorism is:  

1.  The unlawful use or theat of violence especially against the state of the public as a politically motivated means of attack or coercion.

2.  Violent and intimidating gang activity.

Cyberterrorism according to the FBI, is any premeditated, politically motivated attack against information, computer systems, computer programs, and data which results in violence against non-combatant targets by sub-national groups or clandestine agents.  

As citizens there are several different things we can do to report suspicious activity and/or protect ourselves, our families, our county and our country.  The number 1 thing to do is contact 9-1-1 or local law enforcement. 

Learn more about the National Terrorism Advisory System and current alerts by viewing the US Department of Homeland Security website.

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Active Shooter Preparedness

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) aims to enhance preparedness through a "whole community" approach by providing training, products, and resources to a broad range of stakeholders on issues such as active shooter awareness, incident response, and workplace violence. In many cases, there is no pattern or method to the selection of victims by an active shooter, and these situations are by their very nature are unpredictable and evolve quickly. DHS offers free courses, materials, and workshops to better prepare you to deal with an active shooter situation and to raise awareness of behaviors that represent pre-incident indicators and characteristics of active shooters. Go to their website.

Cybersecurity

Learn how to protect yourself in cyberspace by securing your Web Browser. The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team has prepared a guide to secure Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari and several other browsers.

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If You See Something, Say Something

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) believes that homeland security begins with hometown security. DHS is encouraging citizens to be proactive by reporting suspicious activity such as an unattended backpack in a public place, leaking packages or someone trying to access a restricted area. If you see something suspicious taking place then report that behavior or activity to local law enforcement or in the case of emergency call 9-1-1. Click here to learn more about this national anti-terrorism campaign. Be sure to take the Challenge!! 

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NetSmartz Workshop is an interactive, educational program of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® (NCMEC) that provides age-appropriate resources to help teach children how to be safer on- and offline. The program is designed for children ages 5-17, parents and guardians, educators, and law enforcement. With resources such as videos, games, activity cards, and presentations, NetSmartz entertains while it educates. Click here.

Our Goals:

• Educate children on how to recognize potential Internet risks
• Engage children and adults in a two-way conversation about on- and offline risks
• Empower children to help prevent themselves from being exploited and to report victimization to a trusted adult