Published by Transportation Security Administration 9 September 2021
"Today, the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will increase the range of civil penalties that may be imposed on individuals who violate the federal mask mandate at airports, on commercial aircraft, and in various modes of surface transportation, including passenger railroads, intercity bus services, and other public transportation. The federal mask mandate for transportation, which was implemented by TSA on February 2, 2021, will remain in effect until January 18, 2022."
To read the press release, click here.
TSA announces Las Vegas passenger screening canine Alona selected as the “2021 Cutest Canine”
Published by Transportation Security Administration 26 August 2021
"WASHINGTON –The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that a 4-year-old Golden Retriever and explosives detection canine named Alona is TSA’s Cutest Canine in 2021. She works with canine handler Vanessa at Las Vegas McCarran International Airport."
To read this press release, click here.
Delta To Require Masks, Add Surcharge For Unvaccinated Employees
Published by AVweb 25 August 2021
"Delta Air Lines is now requiring employees who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to wear masks in all indoor Delta settings, according to a memo sent by company CEO Ed Bastian on Wednesday. In addition, weekly COVID tests will be required for any employee who is not fully vaccinated as of Sep. 12."
To read this article, click here.
TSA intercepts gun at John Glenn Columbus International Airport
Published by Transportation Security Administration 24 August 2021
"COLUMBUS, Ohio – Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers stopped a firearm from making its way onboard an airplane at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) Tuesday."
To read this press release, click here.
DemonWare Solicits Staff to Deploy Ransomware
Published by Infosecurity Magazine 20 August 2021
Know your employees and understand their susceptibility. Proactive security awareness training can protect users from ransomware attacks.
To read this article, click here.
CBP Officers Seize Currency from Palestine and Jamaica Bound Travelers
Published by Homeland Security Today 17 August 2021
Providing truthful responses on customs declaration forms is often the best route to a worry-fee travel experience. The total currency amount carried across a border must be reported on forms provided by Customs and Border Protection officers. Falsifying the forms is illegal and costly.
To read this article, click here.
CBP Tells Travelers to Leave Their THC Edibles Behind on Vacation or Face Penalty
Published by Homeland Security Today 17 August 2021
Substantial fines are not out of the question when a passenger is found to have prohibited items in their luggage or on their person. It is important to remember that edibles, oils and other plant products containing cannabis derivatives should not be carried across the border.
Being schooled and fined by a US Customs and Border Protection officer is not likely what a homecoming passenger wants to experience.
To read this article, click here.
'A Plane-Hijacking Will Happen Soon': Threatening Messages AirDropped During Flight
Published by Newsweek 12 August 2021
A flight change was required after individuals experienced a chilling, pre-flight event. The disturbance happened when an unnerving electronic post was received by some of the passengers. It caused a significant ripple effect on the aircraft.
Other similar incidents have also occurred, according to the TSA.
To read this article, click here.
DHS Releases National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin regarding the current heightened threat environment across the United States
Published by U.S. Department of Homeland Security 13 August 2021
The upcoming 20th Anniversary of the 9/11/2001 terrorist attacks, and religious holidays observance season, prompted this DHS bulletin.
To read this press release, click here.
INTERPOL and Onfido provide training on detecting fake identity documents
Published by Interpol 31 July 2021
The Digital INTERPOL Alert Library, Electronic Documentation and Information System on Investigation Networks (Edison), and Interpol's stolen and lost documents database were just some of the items on the agenda for a virtual training hosted by the international agency. The training was provided to officers from Newark and John F. Kennedy International airports to develop their skills in examining security documents.
To read this article, click here.
DHS Releases New Resources to Combat Human Trafficking on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
Published by Interpol 30 July 2021
Forced labor is an instituted practice in some countries that has existed for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. One of the agendas of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is to end it and they have published a "fact sheet for the business community detailing criminal authorities used for prosecuting forced labor and related offenses in China" as well as a resource guide on prosecutions for trafficking and supporting victims.
To read this press release, click here.
Man arrested after a violent medical episode at Bradley Airport
Published by Fox61 30 July 2021
It is unknown why law enforcement determined a man needed a medical evaluation after he unlawfully entered an airport property. The man was apprehended after an altercation with an employee of an airline who approached him.
To read this article, click here.
Suspects arrested in stolen aircraft case
Published by Bitterroot Star 28 July 2021
Two people are facing an assortment of charges, including felony tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, felony criminal possession of drugs and felony theft. The people were traced down by law enforcement after one of them was forced to land an aircraft they allegedly stole.
To read this article, click here.
2 airports in 2 different states suffer security breach
Published by The Morning Call and Miami Herald 17 July 2021
In two separate instances, an airport was breached when a vehicle drove without authorization on a runway after crashing through a fence. Both drivers were quickly apprehended by law enforcement and now face criminal charges.
To read The Morning Call article, click here.
To read the Miami Herald article, click here.
ICE HSI probe leads to federal prison sentences for 2 Los Angeles-area men who ran large-scale counterfeit identification document ring
Published by U.S. Immigration and Customs 12 July 2021
Personal identifying information of real people was used by three men to create fraudulent identification documents that included driver's licenses, Green Cards, passports, employment authorization cards and Social Security cards. It is unknown how the men's activity came to the attention of law enforcement, but two of them will be serving time in prison for their crimes.
To read this press release, click here.
Alaskan teen passenger causes plane to nosedive after taking over controls
Published by NBC News 9 July 2021
When a security event occurs on board an aircraft in flight, the flight crew may need assistance from passengers in regaining control. On a recent flight in Alaska, passengers willingly took action when another passenger tried to physically take control of the aircraft.
To read this article, click here.
ACI Publishes Guidance for Airports to Help Combat Wildlife Trafficking
Published by Homeland Security Today 2 July 2021
Sea turtles, tigers, pangolins, sharks, elephants and other wild animals are killed illegally for profit every day. The poachers then remove prized parts from the dead animals and ship those parts via aircraft to other parts of the world.
A new handbook by the Airports Council International (ACI) World, called the ACI Combatting Wildlife Trafficking Handbook, contains information to help airports address this global issue.
To read this article, click here.
Man attempted to steal helicopter at Kissimmee airport after hit-and-run, investigators say
Published by ClickOrlando 30 June 2021
A man in Florida is facing multiple criminal charges after attempting to steal a helicopter, breaking into a home, stealing at least two vehicles and his involvement in a hit-and-run accident. At this time, it is unknown why he left the accident and initiated the mini-crime spree.
To read this article, click here.
CBP Officers Seize $7k in Counterfeit Currency from Traveler Arriving from Jamaica
Published by U.S. Customs and Border Protection 23 June 2021
Despite modern means to prevent counterfeiting, this practice still continues and is used for a multitude of illegal activities. People found with counterfeit currency could face criminal charges.
To read this article, click here.
CBP Introduces Remote Interview Pilot for Trusted Traveler Programs
Published by Homeland Security Today 2 June 2021
Looking for an easier way to renew your Trusted Traveler Program enrollment? If you are enrolled in NEXUS, SENTRI Global Entry or FAST, you may be able to take advantage of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) new pilot program to conduct your interview with CBP staff remotely.
To read this article, click here.
CBP Launches New Mobile Passport Control App Pilot in Philadelphia, Fort Lauderdale
Published by U.S. Customs and Border Protection 1 June 2021
Tired of carrying around your travel information documents and passport? The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched an app that stores these documents electronically.
To read this press release, click here.
The Air Up There Podcast: Lose the Laser
Published by Federal Aviation Administration 28 May 2021
In this new podcast, part of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) The Air Up There series, the FAA discusses laser strikes targeting aircraft.
To listen to this podcast, click here.
NTAS Bulletin: Summary of Terrorism Threat to the U.S. Homeland
Published by U.S. Department of Homeland Security 14 May 2021
The Secretary of Homeland Security has issued a new National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin regarding the current heightened threat environment across the United States. The Homeland is facing threats that have evolved significantly and become increasingly complex and volatile in 2021.
To read this bulletin, click here.
Security Practices for Pilots
Published by Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
Pilots play a pivotal role in keeping airports safe and secure. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) has put together a valuable resource to help pilots improve upon their current security measures.
To learn more, click here.
Reading man charged with burglary at Reading Regional Airport
Published by Yahoo! News 28 April 2021
The recovery of a fingerprint led authorities to the person they allege stole items from the Reading Jet Center in Reading, Pennsylvania. In addition to burglary, the 19-year-old faces charges of receiving stolen property, theft and criminal trespass.
To read this story, click here.
Wild Ride: Suspected DUI Driver Leads Police Pursuit on Sacramento Executive Airport Runway
Published by CBS Sacramento 13 April 2021
An executive airport in Sacramento, California, is planning to increase its security after it was the victim of an unauthorized breach. Several aircraft were hit by a vehicle after it ran through an airport fence. It is unknown what type of damage the aircraft may have incurred.
To read this story, click here.
CBP Officers, Facial Biometrics Detect Two Cameroon Impostors to U.S. Passports at Dulles Airport
Published by U.S. Customs and Border Protection 8 April 2021
Part of the role of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the United States. The advancement of technology that compares facial features with the documentation presented, has resulted in more than 500 detections of people, trying to pass as regular travelers coming to the U.S., since 2018. This technology continues to assist CBP officers today, as evidenced by a recent attempt by two women.
To read this media release, click here.
TSA, Law Enforcement Assess Ability to Stop Unauthorized Drones
Published by Homeland Security Today 20 March 2021
As the number of commercial and private drones continues to grow, we could soon see these unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) above us on a daily basis. To prepare for the potential risks drones present, tests relating to locating and stoping unauthorized drones were recently conducted by an assembly of multiple agencies in Connecticut.
To read this media release, click here.
CBP Removes Global Entry Privileges From Two Travelers at Baltimore Washington International
Published by U.S. Customs and Border Protection 6 March 2021
As a reminder, the Global Entry membership is a privilege and as such, members are expected to abide by federal law. When travelers take advantage of this privilege, they can be removed from the program. Recently, two passengers lost their privileges for this very reason.
To read this media release, click here.
FAA Proposes $27,500 Civil Penalty Against Passenger for Allegedly Assaulting Flight Attendant
Published by Homeland Security Today 27 February 2021
An attack on a flight attendant poses a security risk to the entire flight and can result in legal actions against the alleged offender. It is unknown in this case if the passenger is also facing criminal charges after they reportedly initiated a physical altercation when their flight returned to the airport gate.
To read this article, click here.
Airports and DHS Offer Helping Hand to Victims of Human Trafficking
Published by Homeland Security Today 16 January 2021
Human trafficking is a global issue, and many organizations, airports and individuals are taking steps in fighting against this problem through the Blue Lightning Initiative (BLI). Joining the list, HS Today states, “Miami International Airport (MIA) has formed a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fight human trafficking through the Blue Lightning Initiative program.”
To learn more about the Blue Lightning Initiative, click here.
Woman Arrested After Ramming Willard Airport Security Fence Multiple Times
Published by WCIA.com 2 January 2021
Controlled substances and alcohol were discovered by officers when they stopped a vehicle after it rammed its way through an airport’s security gate. It is unknown why the female driver was at the airport prior to the accident.
To read this article, click here.
Diligent TSA Officers Use Training, New Technology and Instincts at SJU To Uncover Fraudulent Identification and Criminal Behavior
Published by Homeland Security Today 29 December 2020
Attempting to apprehend someone using fraudulent identification can be extremely difficult, especially during this time when masks are required to be worn in public. However, new technology is able to assist in identifying individuals attempting to use fake IDs. Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), partnered with extensive training and instincts led to some revealing discoveries at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport.
To read this article, click here.
Las Vegas McCarran Welcomes Simplified Arrival Program
Published by Homeland Security Today 5 December 2020
Traveling to Las Vegas? If you are arriving from outside the U.S., you may witness the newest program that has been put into place, the Simplified Arrival Program. HS Today states, “Simplified Arrival is an enhanced international arrival process that uses facial biometrics to automate the manual document checks that are already required for admission into the United States.”
To learn more, click here.
‘Erratic’ passenger arrested after flight from Orlando to Philadelphia, police say
Published by Click Orlando 12 November 2020
A passenger sat in the presence of two men, one a flight attendant, after he made statements that were considered alarming, including a request to speak with the pilot. No information was provided on the reason for the man’s behavior and after the aircraft landed, he was placed into police custody.
To read this article, click here.
CBP Intercepts $9.3 Million in Counterfeit Merchandise
Published by Homeland Security Today 10 November 2020
Criminals attempted to conceal over $9 million worth of counterfeit accessories, but their deception was discovered, and the products were seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. This isn’t a rare occurrence; this happens more often than you think, especially around the holidays. HS Today states, “In fiscal year 20, CBP processed $2.4 trillion in imports, ensuring that goods coming into the country are safe and legal. By the end of the last fiscal year, CBP recorded more than 23,700 seizures of counterfeit goods, with an estimated value of $1.2 billion.”
To read this article, click here.
Person Flying with Jetpack Spotted Near Los Angeles International Airport, Again
Published by NPR 15 October 2020
Some unusual things have been flying around LAX airport lately. NPR states, “On Wednesday, for the second time in six weeks, an unidentified person was seen flying using a jetpack near Los Angeles International Airport. It's unclear whether this is the same individual who was recently spotted wearing a jetpack near the same airport."
To read this article, click here.
TSA Officers Detect Live Military Grenade in Checked Baggage
Published by Homeland Security Today 6 October 2020
There are some items you can bring through TSA checkpoints, and there are some items you can’t. One of the many restricted items you are unable to take with you on your journey is a live smoke grenade. Yes, you read that correctly. Live smoke grenades should be left at home.
To read this article, click here.
Boston TSA Officers Stop FBI Impostor From Boarding Flight
Published by Transportation Security Administration 2 October 2020
Halloween is the only time during the year you can pretend to be someone or something else. Impersonating a government official, such as an FBI agent, and attempting to board a flight can get you into trouble. See how two TSA officers responded when a woman did just that at Boston Logan International Airport.
To read this article, click here.
Louisville Man Arrested for Laser Strikes on Local Aircraft
Published by FBI 25 September 2020
Lasers are used for many useful purposes. However, when a laser is pointed at a person, it can cause temporary or permanent blindness. When an aircraft is targeted with a laser, it creates a very dangerous situation, putting everyone on board at risk. In Louisville, a laser was deliberately pointed at a helicopter operated by the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD).
To read this article, click here.
CBP Finds Half a Million Dollars Concealed Inside a Chair
Published by Homeland Security Today 12 September 2020
Chairs are normally used for sitting. However, that is not the case here. Criminals attempted to use a chair cushion to conceal over $490,000. The money was seized at Miami International Airport by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Talk about finding some loose change in your cushions!
To read this article, click here.
Driver Crashes Through Fence at PDX, Drives onto Airfield With Woman and Kids in Car
Published by KGW8 18 August 2020
Airport security is crucial to the aviation industry as a whole. One of the most important aspects of airport security is preventing unauthorized access, but breaches still occur from time to time. A recent perimeter gate breach at an airport illustrates this. KGW8 states, “The pilot of a commercial airliner was forced to stop on the taxiway at Portland International Airport (PDX) on Sunday after a car drove underneath its wing. Port of Portland police chased the driver and arrested him at gunpoint.”
To read this article, click here.
Hawaii Airports Introduce NEC Temperature Screening System
Published by Homeland Security Today 8 August 2020
Handheld thermometers will soon be a thing of the past at five Hawaii airports. Instead of having to stop and have their temperature taken, new equipment will screen their temperatures. Further actions will be taken, and the passenger will be offered a COVID-19 test if a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher is detected.
To read this article, click here.
Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airport Operators and Users
Published by Transportation Security Administration
Do you know in 2004 the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airport Operators and Users? The guidelines provided general aviation (GA) operators a quick resource on topics that had only been communicated to commercial operators. In 2017, the security guidelines document was updated by the TSA’s Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) to reflect current practices.
To learn more, click here.
CBP Officers at Chicago O’ Hare Stop Criminal Wanted for Murder
Published by Homeland Security Today 1 August 2020
It is unknown how a passenger attracted the attention of officers with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). What is certain is they discovered the man had an active second-degree murder warrant. When his flight landed in Chicago, he was arrested after identity was confirmed.
To read this article, click here.
Over 19K Fraudulent IDs Seized by CBP Officers in Chicago
Published by U.S. Customs and Border Protection 27 July 2020
Why are fraudulent IDs so dangerous? Ralph Piccirilli, Acting Area Port Director, Chicago states, “Criminal organizations use these counterfeit IDs to avoid attracting attention to their illegal activities.” These activities include immigration-related crimes, identity theft and terrorism. Fraudulent IDs have been found in 1,513 shipments, so far this year, coming through Chicago O’Hare International Airport’s International Mail Facility (IMF).
To read this article, click here.
Credential Authentication Technology Goes Live at Richmond, JFK and LaGuardia
Published by Homeland Security Today 25 July 2020
Fraudulent documents from air travelers are easier to detect, thanks to credential authentication technology (CAT) units that have been recently installed in three airports. “This technology enhances detection capabilities for identifying fraudulent documents such as driver’s licenses and passports at checkpoints and increases efficiency by automatically verifying passenger identification,” said Chuck Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Richmond International Airport. “The system will also confirm the passenger’s flight status in near real time through a secured connection.”
To read this article, click here.
TSA Launches Campaign to Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus in Airports
Published by Aviation Pros 2 July 2020
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) launched a campaign to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. TSA provides detailed information for travelers, so they know what to expect when being processed through airport security. The article covers the screening process, what items are allowed and how to store them and what is expected of passengers.
For more information about this new campaign, click here.
More Loaded Guns Detected at Checkpoints as TSA Continues to Detect High Rate of Firearms
Published by Homeland Security Today 30 May 2020
Due to the restrictions on travel, there has been a much shorter line (if any line at all) at airport security checkpoints. One would think less travel means less passengers, which would mean less chance of finding a firearm attempting to get through security. Unfortunately, this not the case. HS Today states, "TSA officers continue to detect firearms at the nation’s airports following its announcement regarding an increase in firearm detection rates during pandemic-restricted travel.”
To read this article, click here.
TSA Implements Additional COVID-19 Safety Measure at U.S. Airports
Published by Transportation Security Administration 7 May 2020
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has just announced it will require the wearing of facial protection for all employees at screening checkpoints. TSA states, “The decision to require TSA officers to wear facial protection will be implemented over the coming days. It is an additional measure to help minimize spread of COVID-19 and help raise the overall health and safety level inside the airport environment. Wearing protective eyewear remains voluntary by TSA personnel who are serving in an active screening position.”
To read this announcement, click here.
Experts Warn Companies To Prepare For Security Breaches When Travel Restrictions Lift
Published by Phocus Wire 5 May 2020
Cyber criminals and fraudsters tend to attack during the most pivotal moments of an industry change; the current pandemic demonstrates this. Within the travel industry there are warnings of possible spikes in cyber-attacks as companies prepare to get back to business. Phocus Wire says, “…fraudsters are targeting the travel space. They will be waiting for the moment when the bans are lifted and airlines start business anew because it will be a period of time when airlines are doing everything they can to grow their revenues and work out losses…”
To read this article, click here.
How Airport and Seaport Employees Can Help Stop Human Trafficking
Published by Homeland Security Today 18 April 2020
Since travel is a key tool used in human trafficking, it’s unfortunate that airport facilities have become a common hotspot for transporting victims. The Port of Seattle is one of many entities that recognizes how crucial it is for all of their employees to be trained on identifying human trafficking situations. Homeland Security Today says, “When ticket agents, janitors, baggage handlers, deckhands, oilers, and other employees are properly trained and know how to spot the warning signs of human trafficking, they can help expand the reporting of this crime to their security departments and law enforcement.”
To read this article, click here.
COVID-19 Checkpoints Aid In Combating Human Trafficking
Published by American Military University 2 April 2020
At established checkpoints, public health officials are screening individuals to prevent the spread of coronavirus. These checkpoints are not just helping the spread of this disease, but are also helping to combat human trafficking. In Homeland Security states, "Victims of both sex and labor trafficking commonly travel on interstate highways and through airports. As a result, it is important that all of those at checkpoints and screening locations are aware of the indicators of human trafficking and understand their role in combating this crime."
To learn more, click here.
Airlines Pivot From Passengers To Cargo Amid Coronavirus Crisis
Published by Los Angeles Times 31 March 2020
Over the last few weeks, airlines have been turning to cargo operations to sustain their business. With the switch to transporting cargo, this will help keep some individuals employed, and will also keep merchandise and product moving to ensure there is no lack of supplies.
To read the article, click here.
Beware Stimulus Check Scams
Published by CNN 28 March 2020
Since the outbreak of coronavirus, there has been numerous different scams that have been circulating the United States. The newest scam is taking advantage of the recent stimulus package that promises checks to the American people that meet certain criteria. Scammers are using many different tactics to obtain people's bank accounts and personal information with promises of getting that check into their hands sooner. Don't fall victim to these scams and educate yourself on what red flags to look for.
To read this article, click here.
Coronavirus and Travel in the United States
Published by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 11 March 2020
The Coronavirus has changed the world of travel as we know it; not just international travel, but now domestic. COVID-19 has made its mark here in the United States, and it doesn’t look like it will be going away anytime soon. The CDC provides detailed information on traveling within the U.S and different aspects to consider and think about.
To see how this may affect you, click here.
TSA Announces New Security Measures at Sacramento International Airport Checkpoints
Published by The Sacramento Bee 1 March 2020
If you have ever passed through airport security, you’ve been directed to have your identification and boarding passes ready to be scanned. Changes to security are being implemented at Sacramento International Airport; along with other major airports like Boston Logan International. When processed through TSA security checkpoints, boarding passes are no longer required to be scanned. The Sacramento Bee states, “The new identification verification system, called Credential Authentication Technology, is being introduced this month at airports nationally. The technology connects to the TSA’s Secure Flight database, which identifies people who are on the federal government’s ‘no fly’ list.”
To read this article, click here.
Senator Markey Discusses Air Cargo Screening, Aviation Security at Field Hearing in Boston at Logan International Airport
Published by Aviation Pros 24 February 2020
Everyday thousands of aircraft fly through the skies transporting not just people, but also cargo and luggage. The Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP) helps ensure that all cargo being transported is screened for possible threats. TSA states, “In our effort to raise the baseline for all elements of aviation security, this program is an important tool that helps address evolving threats while ensuring air cargo commerce remains both secure and efficient.”
To read this article, click here.
Virginia Man Arrested By Police After TSA Catches Him With Loaded Gun at Richmond International Airport Security Checkpoint
Released by Transportation Security Administration 21 February 2020
A man in Virginia has been arrested after he was questioned for having a firearm in his carry-on bag at Richmond International Airport. The gun was found by a TSA officer and contained a bullet in the chamber along with 6 others.
For more information, click here.
Louisville Man Briefly Shuts Down Airport Security Screening
Published by WDRB news 19 February 2020
A man with a history of accessing unauthorized areas at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has been charged with resisting arrest, third-degree trespassing and second-degree disorderly conduct. The man was arrested after he attempted to enter a restricted area by using an exit lane at a security checkpoint.
To read this article, click here.
Man With Loaded Pistol Told Nebraska Airport Security He Forgot He Had it With Him, TSA Says
Published by the Lincoln Journal Star 19 February 2020
People who are boarding commercial flights are prohibited from bringing firearms in their carry-on bags. The firearm must be carried in a hard case and unloaded. However, a man at the Central Nebraska Regional Airport told authorities that he forgot he had his firearm with him.
To read this article, click here.
SchoolSafety.gov Launches to Help Educators, Administrators, Parents, and Law Enforcement Prepare for Threats
Released by U.S. Department of Homeland Security 10 February 2020
Now K-12 administrators, law enforcement, parents and the public have an online resource to help them mitigate the risk of a school threat. SchoolSafety.gov offers a sharing platform for school personnel, a school assessment tool, best practices and resources on topics related to school safety.
To learn more, click here.
SECURITY ALERT 6 January 2020: National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin Issued
Issued by U.S. Department of Homeland Security 4 January 2020
Due to increasing tensions within the Middle East, an alert bulletin was issued by DHS. This bulletin highlights that attacks can come at any time with little or no warning, however, a specific, credible threat is not currently known. Advisory Bulletins describe current developments or general trends regarding threats of terrorism.
To read this NTAS bulletin, click here.
U.S. Counter Intelligence Chief Warns of Broadening Spy Threat
Published by CBS News 10 February 2020
A new document released from the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) addresses technologies such as advanced encryption and artificial intelligence and the role they play in threats from other nations and groups. The report names ISIS, Lebanese Hizballah and al-Qaeda as “significant threats” and identifies Cuba, China, Russia, North Korea and Iran as “notable state adversaries.”
To read this article, click here.
California Shooting Shows Security Vulnerabilities on Buses
Published by Yahoo! News 4 February 2020
The recent shooting on a Greyhound bus has brought attention to weaknesses within America’s ground transportation system. Ground transportation is used by 30 million people every day and experts state the system is simply too vast to establish the same level of security found in airports.
To read this article, click here.
Hackers Put 30 Million Wawa Customers' Data for Sale
Published by CisoMag 30 January 2020
An ongoing investigation seeks to identify the hackers responsible for a malware payload that captured payment card details of 30 million Americans. The data was then offered for sale on the dark web.
To read this article, click here.
Real ID Coming 1 October 2020
Beginning October 1, 2020, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.
Download the Fact Sheet here, or visit the tsa.gov/real-id to download the toolkit.
The below image shows the states currently in compliance. Click on the image to view details by state.
Super Bowl GA Flight Requirements
Published by Federal Aviation Administration 2 January 2020
The FAA has posted a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) in preparation to Super Bowl LIV. Special restrictions will be in place for both General Aviation (GA) and Unmanned Aircraft (UA) flights
To view this notice, click here.
TSA Best Practices and Recommendations - Protecting Public Areas
Published by Transportation Security Administration October 2019
Education, communication and cooperation are just some of the important topics discussed in this Transportation Security Administration (TSA) publication on protecting public areas.
To download this document, click here.
General Aviation Security Guidelines for Airport Operators and Users
Posted by Joe Dalton on 2 July 2019
Do you know in 2004 the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airport Operators and Users? The guidelines provided general aviation (GA) operators a quick resource on topics that had only been communicated to commercial operators. In 2017, the security guidelines document was updated by the TSA’s Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) to reflect current practices.
Members of the GA community identified eight functional areas of security and is broken down into detailed discussions of methods and strategies. The eight functional areas of security are:
- Risk-based methodology
- Personnel
- Aircraft
- Infrastructure: Airports/Facilities (including fixed based operators (FBOs) and corporate based operators (CBOs))
- Surveillance
- Security Plans and Communications
- Specialty Operations
- Tenants and Users
Why is this document important? Click here!
National Strategy for Aviation
Published by White House December 2018
The latest National Strategy for Aviation Security (NSAS) plan expands the list of national threats to include foreign intelligence activities, the spread of infectious diseases through air travel and insiders.
To download the full NSAS, click here.
(Human Trafficking) Awareness Training Saves Lives
Posted by Whitney Sigafoose on 30 October 2018
Human trafficking is a worldwide epidemic. According to the International Labou
r Organization, an estimated 40.3 million people are victims of modern-day slavery. Of those 40.3 million people, 24.9 million people are in forced labor and 15.4 million are in forced marriage. Contrary to popular belief, this is not just an issue overseas, it is happening right in our own backyard. The image below from the Polaris Project shows the largest hot spots for human trafficking here in the United States.
To read this article, click here.
