Frequently Asked Questions

What is suspicious activity?

This is difficult to define for ever situation because of the complexities of the world we live in today. But a good guide is if the activity you observed made you feel uncomfortable. Another guide might be that if what you observed doesn’t look right, doesn’t smell right, or doesn’t sound right, it might be suspicious.

What if I’m not sure about what I observed?

Law enforcement agencies and the Department of Home Land Security suggest that if you observed something you’re not sure about, it would be better to report the incident. What might seem minor, or not that suspicious, to you could in fact be an important piece of information in an investigation.

Does suspicious activity mean a crime is being committed?

No, not necessarily. There may be a reasonable explanation for what you observed. But it is possible that what you observed is a precursor to terrorist or criminal activity.

What happens when I make a report?

The information on what you observed is automatically sent to the local or regional multi-agency counter terrorism center designated in your area to receive such reports. These centers receive thousands of pieces of information every day. Their task is to analyze and evaluate all the information they receive and determine if there is any relationship between individual pieces of information and possible terrorist or criminal activity. If there, this analyzed information is then shared with key state and federal law enforcement and counter terrorism agencies. The process is like putting together pieces of a puzzle, and when the puzzle picture starts to appear, to share it with the right people.

What if I’m wrong in what I report?

You can’t be wrong in reporting what you observe. As a citizen, all you are asked to do is if you see something that makes you feel uncomfortable, or suspicious, to report what you observed. It’s the job of the agencies that receive this information to determine what it may mean and if it’s important.

Can I submit information anonymously?

Yes. You are not required to provide your contact information.

Why do you ask for my contact information?

You may voluntarily include your contact information in a report. This is helpful in case authorities have more questions about the activity you observed.

If I do provide my contact information, will it be kept confidential?

Yes. Your identity and personal contact information, if you choose to include it in a report, will be kept confidential and held in strictest confidence by the agencies handling your report. Your identity and contact information will not be shared, sold, or otherwise disseminated to any person or entity except as required or authorized by law.

Is the government asking citizens to spy on each other?

No. But we all play a role in helping protect our homes, neighborhoods and communities from crime and acts of terrorism. Common sense applies. If you observe something that just doesn’t seem right, it makes more sense to tell someone – the authorities – than to keep it to yourself.

Quick Links

The Seven Signs of Terrorism

Homeland Security Video

Frequently Asked Questions