Possible Indicators of Al-Qaeda Surveillance

[InfoSec News <isn () c4i org>]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 24 Mar 2003 13:02:05 -0500
From: stephfa <stephfa () ncix gov>
To: stephfa () ncix gov
Subject: POSSIBLE INDICATORS OF AL-QAEDA SURVEILLANCE

Dear Friends and Colleagues:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued the following
information on possible indicators of Al-Qaeda surveillance.  It is
provided for information only.

Al-Qaeda operations have been characterized by meticulous planning, a
focus on inflicting mass casualties, and multiple, simultaneous
suicide attacks.  Operatives are highly trained in basic and
sophisticated surveillance techniques, posing challenges for
counterterrorism and security forces in identifying terrorist
surveillance.  Recent information and analysis point to surveillance
practices that traditionally have been utilized by
Al-Qaeda-affliliated operatives. While not exhaustive, the following
list suggests possible indicators of terrorist surveillance:

* Unusual or prolonged interest in security measures or personnel, 
  entry points and access controls, or perimeter barriers such as 
  fences or walls.

* Unusual behavior such as starting or quickly looking away from
  personnel or vehicles entering or leaving designated facilities or
  parking areas.

* Observation of security reaction drills or procedures.

* Increase in anonymous telephone or e-mail threats to facilities in
  conjunction with suspected surveillance incidents-indicating 
  possible surveillance of threat reaction procedures.

* Foot surveillance involving two or three individuals working 
  together.

* Mobile surveillance using bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, cars,
  trucks, sport utility vehicles, boats, or small aircraft.

* Prolonged static surveillance using operatives disguised as
  panhandlers, demonstrators, shoe shiners, food or flower vendors, 
  news agents, or street sweepers not previously seen in the area.

* Discreet use of still cameras, video recorders or note taking at
  non-tourist type locations.

* Use of multiple sets of clothing, identifications, or the use of
  sketching materials (paper, pencils, etc.).

* Questioning of security or facility personnel.

General information on possible terrorist planning activities
proceeding an attack can be found at www.dhs.gov .

DHS encourages individuals to report information concerning such
suspicious activity to their local FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force
(JTTF) office, DHS, or to other appropriate authorities. Individuals
can reach the DHS (NIPC) WATCH AND WARNING UNIT at (202) 323-3205,
toll free at 1-888-585-9078, or by email to nipc.watch () fbi gov.



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